Our pediatric orthopedic surgeons were the first in the United States to introduce this gentler method for guiding the growth of the spine. We performed the first MAGEC rod implantation surgery following its FDA approval. With the MAGEC (MAGnetic Expansion Control) Spinal Bracing and Distraction System, a surgeon inserts and attaches two magnetic, telescoping rods above and below the curve of the spine.
After surgery, a physician specializing in spine care can gradually expand the rods using a magnetic remote control that is held over the spine. Magnets drive the motor of the rods to lengthen them. These outpatient sessions cause minimal discomfort.
With traditional growing rods, a child needs multiple surgeries throughout their childhood to lengthen the rods to keep up with their growth. With the MAGEC System for rod lengthening, the number of surgeries is greatly reduced. This leads to fewer incisions, less infection risk and fewer times undergoing anesthesia. Reducing the number of surgeries also lowers the number of X-rays a child needs.
The MAGEC System provides a way to delay spinal fusion for children from 5 to 10. In spinal fusion surgery, a surgeon attaches rods, hooks, wires or screws to the curved area of the spine and places small pieces of bone over the spine. The bone pieces will attach (fuse) to the spinal bone, straightening it into the proper position. Ultimately, a spinal fusion may still be required, as is the case with any scoliosis growing rod. The difference is that a surgeon can adjust the MAGEC rods as a child grows. Children can maintain their flexibility while their spine is braced and the growth of the curve of their spine is slowed.
Below you can learn more about the MAGEC rods surgery and recovery, and what to expect in the treatment sessions that follow a MAGEC procedure.
Specific treatments and services may vary by location. Please contact a specific location for more information.
It's a huge blessing. It's freed him up so much to be able to move and use muscles that he wasn't able to use before.
