The USA’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently announced that it had approved its very first spinal tethering device for correcting idiopathic scoliosis in children and adolescents.
The Tether™ vertebral body tethering system is designed to help correct spinal curvatures in young patients whose bones have yet to fully mature.
Made up of titanium anchors, bone screws and set screws, along with a flexible polymer cord, the device aims to prevent further curve progression, theoretically eliminating the need for spinal fusion surgery.
What does this mean for young scoliosis patients in the USA?
Manufactured by Zimmer Biomet, the spinal tether device has been presented as something of a breakthrough in paediatric scoliosis management. It is an innovative treatment option that aims to improve quality of life for young patients with idiopathic scoliosis.
Dr Baron Lonner, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at New York City’s Mount Sinai Hospital, applauded the FDA’s decision, noting that vertebral body tethering (VBT) could become a “mainstream option for scoliosis treatment” in due course.
The Tether™ VBT system is designed to help young scoliosis patients with a Cobb angle of 30-65 degrees.
Idiopathic scoliosis in children
Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form of scoliosis. The causes of idiopathic scoliosis are unknown (this is what the word ‘idiopathic’ means). It is typically diagnosed in children and adolescents between the ages of 10 and 18.
The most commonly-prescribed medical treatment for idiopathic scoliosis is bracing. If the brace does not successfully halt the progression of the patient’s spinal curve, surgery may be recommended.
Though often effective, the spinal fusion procedure can lead to problems of its own, with patients sometimes facing such issues as restricted motion and arthritis down the line.
The FDA’s decision to approve this new tethering device could give young scoliosis sufferers a new hope in tackling their spinal issues.
Is vertebral body tethering effective?
In June 2018, NHS England published a report titled Evidence Review: Vertebral Body Tethering for Treatment of Idiopathic Scoliosis.
This review examined the effectiveness of VBT and the complication rates associated with this treatment method.
Here are two key findings from NHS England’s report…
- 5 out of 25 patients required repeat surgery: “At skeletal maturity, Ames, Samdami et al reported 5 patients from the cohort of 25 requiring repeat surgery to loosen the tether in order to treat or prevent overcorrection (Ames, Samdani, & Betz, 2016).”
- In total, 44% of patients experienced some complications. In addition to the 5 patients who required repeat surgery (see above), another 5 experienced “transient thigh pain or numbness”, and there was 1 patient with “unresolved intercostal neuralgia“.
- There’s not yet enough evidence of VBT’s effectiveness: “It is not possible at present, given the lack of experimental studies, to confirm that this treatment is relatively effective, safe and acceptable when compared to standard care.”
Scoliosis treatment at the Scoliosis SOS Clinic
While the FDA’s decision may be welcome news to young scoliosis sufferers in the USA, vertebral body tethering still has a long way to go as an alternative to spinal fusion surgery, and it remains to be seen just how effective the Tether™ will be in the long term. Note also that this treatment method still requires the patient to undergo an operation.
If you’re seeking a less invasive option for yourself or a loved one with scoliosis, you may be interested in the treatment courses that we deliver here at the Scoliosis SOS Clinic in London, England. Our ScolioGold programme combines a variety of non-surgical methods to create a unique approach that is unlike anything offered elsewhere.
Better still, the ScolioGold method is constantly evolving in line with advances in the field of non-surgical treatment, ensuring that our therapeutic programme continues to deliver the best possible results.
Contact Scoliosis SOS to book a ScolioGold consultation >>
FURTHER READING:
Did you see the Scoliosis SOS team on TV earlier this week?
A Matter of Life and Debt is a BBC One documentary series that focuses on credit unions, responsible moneylenders, and the people whose lives have been transformed by ethical loans.
The third episode of A Matter of Life and Debt‘s current series aired on Wednesday (21 August 2019), and it featured a segment about our Clinic Principal Erika Maude and the loan that helped her to set up the Scoliosis SOS Clinic back in 2006.
Having been let down by a high-street bank, Erika instead sought assistance from Foundation East, a responsible lender that provides finance and support for businesses. They approved Scoliosis SOS for a loan of £50,000 – a sum that, thanks to the clinic’s instant success, was repaid within just nine months!
If you missed our appearance on A Matter of Life and Debt, don’t worry – you can watch it below!
More Media Coverage About Scoliosis SOS
Scoliosis is a condition that affects people from all walks of life. Countless people with scoliosis use social media, blogs and other media outlets to share their personal experiences and offer support to others.
Here are just a few scoliosis quotes from people who have dealt with their condition in the public eye:
Celebrities
A number of well-known public figures have used their positions of influence to raise awareness about scoliosis and to be positive role models for others with the condition.
Princess Eugenie of York, British Royal
Here’s what Princess Eugenie said after her wedding to Jack Brooksbank, during which she wore a dress that showed off the scar from her spinal fusion surgery:
“I believe scars are like memories that tell a story on your body, that remind you of how strong you had to be, and that you survived to talk about it. Your scars are a way of communicating, and sharing a trauma can be healing in so many ways – it can release the stigma you might have given to yourself, and by talking about it, you can show people how they can heal too.”
Kurt Cobain, American Musician
Here is an excerpt from an interview that the troubled Nirvana frontman gave in 1993:
“When I stand, everything is sideways, it’s weird…I go to a chiropractor every once in a while…most people have a small curvature in their spine anyhow, though some people have it really bad and have to wear metal braces. It gives me back pain all the time. That really adds the pain to our music. It really does. I’m kind of grateful for it.”
Usain Bolt, Jamaican Athlete
Here’s what Bolt had to say when asked about his scoliosis in a 2011 interview with ESPN:
“When I was younger it wasn’t really a problem. But you grow and it gets worse. My spine’s really curved bad…but if I keep my core and back strong, the scoliosis doesn’t really bother me. So I don’t have to worry about it as long as I work hard.”
See Also: Famous People with Scoliosis
Scoliosis Influencers
We at Scoliosis SOS have been lucky enough to speak with a number of inspiring people who are working to raise awareness of scoliosis and provide support for those who have it. Here is some of their advice for people with scoliosis:
Leah Stoltz, Founder of Curvy Girls
“Talk about how you’re feeling! Don’t keep it bundled inside. Find support: a trusted friend, a parent, an online forum, Instagram page, Facebook group, book…there are so many ways to feel supported and to talk with other girls who are going though what you are going through.”
Read Full Interview >
Rachel Mulvaney, Vice President of Curvy Girls
“Throughout my bracing years, I was told that my chronic back pain did not exist because scoliosis ‘does not cause any pain’. I was one of many patients who was spoken to in this way. But after learning a programme [the Schroth method] that both validated and eliminated my pain, I was determined to spread the word. I wanted to make sure all Curvy Girl families had the opportunity to know that this treatment existed.”
Read Full Interview >
Louise Laurie, Scoliosis Blogger
“Every case is different, but I would say that mindset is everything. I used to feel so down about my back, but I’ve realised that having scoliosis does not have to hold you back – you can achieve anything you put your mind to.”
Read Full Interview >
@scolilife, Scoliosis Tweeter
“As cheesy as it sounds, things get better. When I was diagnosed, I thought my life was over – it was the biggest deal, and no matter what, everything seemed like bad news or just another complication to add to my growing list. But soon enough, you adjust to the brace. The X-rays become fun. The appointments become bonding time with your family. Your scoliosis becomes a point of pride rather than disappointment, and you become stronger and more independent because of it.”
Read Full Interview >
Chloe Donhou, Spinal Fusion Patient
Chloe underwent spinal fusion surgery live on Channel 5 earlier this year, a spectacle that gave viewers a real insight into what scoliosis surgery actually entails. Here’s something she said after sitting for a painting that was featured on scoliosis blog The Curvy Truth:
“I have always felt the need to cover up my scoliosis as I hated the way my back looked. Wearing clothes was difficult as I felt they sat weirdly on my back. I became so annoyed with myself that I couldn’t just accept it, so I felt that having this piece [a painting of her back] done would allow me to see that it really isn’t that bad after all. The painting is now hung up on my bedroom wall and I see it every day. Seeing it all the time really allowed me to come to terms with it – I accept who I am and I love me for it!”
If you are suffering from scoliosis, don’t think you are alone. There are people all around who are willing to help and support you – for instance, take a look at our list of scoliosis support groups around the world.
Scoliosis SOS: Who Are We? Book a Scoliosis Consultation
Every year, scoliosis sufferers and those close to them recognise the month of June as Scoliosis Awareness Month. This is an annual opportunity for people all over the world to come together, speak out about life with a curved spine, and educate others about what it means to have scoliosis.
This month-long event culminates in International Scoliosis Awareness Day, which falls on the last Saturday of June (meaning that the date to remember this year is 29th June 2019). The UK Scoliosis Association (SAUK) launched International Scoliosis Awareness Day six years ago – here, in the organisation’s own words, is why they did it:
“SAUK launched ISAD in 2013 to unite people across the world to create positive public awareness of scoliosis, promote education, and bring together those affected.”
How do people mark Scoliosis Awareness Month?
People mark this annual occasion in a number of different ways. If you use Twitter, keep an eye out for the hashtag #ScoliosisAwarenessMonth – throughout June, people with scoliosis use this tag to share their stories, their X-ray scans, and photos of their curved backs and surgery scars. All of these posts are intermingled with advice for fellow scoliosis patients and useful information about the condition.
There will also be a number of events taking place in recognition of Scoliosis Awareness Month. In June 2017, for instance, the Curvy Girls support group organised a large walk in New Jersey to raise awareness of spinal curvature.
4 things you should know about scoliosis
We’re keen to do our bit for Scoliosis Awareness Month too, so here – for the benefit of anyone who is unfamiliar with this condition – are 4 things we think everyone should know about scoliosis. Feel free to share this post to help raise awareness!
1. What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways, often resulting in symptoms such as pain, reduced flexibility, muscular imbalance, and (in extreme cases) compromised breathing.
Watch our video to find out more:
For a rough idea of what scoliosis actually looks like, consult the diagram below. However, do bear in mind that every case of scoliosis is different – symptoms, severity, and curve location vary hugely from one person to the next.
2. How common is scoliosis?
Scoliosis affects roughly 4% of people worldwide (i.e. approximately 1 in 25 people). It can occur in any individual regardless of age or gender; however, it is most commonly found in adolescent girls. Read more >
3. What causes scoliosis?
There are many different types of scoliosis with many possible causes. By far the most common form is idiopathic scoliosis, which usually develops during adolescence and has no known cause, though it is thought to be linked to genetic factors.
However, scoliosis can also be caused by:
- Birth defects
- Old age
- A wide range of conditions including muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, spondylolisthesis, and many more
It’s worth noting that scoliosis is NOT caused by carrying heavy bags, though this is a common misconception. Read more >
4. How is scoliosis treated?
Scoliosis can be treated using a number of different methods, with bracing and spinal fusion surgery being the most common. Here at the Scoliosis SOS Clinic in London, England, we treat scoliosis using a combination of non-surgical, exercise-based techniques that we call the ScolioGold method. This approach – using physical therapy to reduce the patient’s spinal curve and improve their quality of life – has shown itself to be very effective. View results >
If you need more information about scoliosis, or if you’re interested in the treatment courses we provide here at Scoliosis SOS, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Treatment Dates 2019 Book a Consultation
The Scoliosis SOS Clinic was founded by Erika Maude on 29 May 2006 – which means we’re 13 today!
We’ve achieved a lot in the last 13 years. Here are just a few highlights:
Most importantly, though, we’ve helped thousands of people with scoliosis to take control of their condition, keep doing the things they love, and – in many cases – completely avoid undergoing spinal fusion surgery.
We’d like to say a huge THANK YOU to all the patients (and their families) who have visited the Scoliosis SOS Clinic over the past 13 years. It’s been a huge honour to meet and help so many of you – long may it continue!
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