Growing rods for early-onset scoliosis in Ehlers-Danlos disease

Purpose: To study the results and complications of Traditional Growing Rods (TGR) for the treatment of Early-Onset Scoliosis (EOS) in patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS).

Methods: This is a retrospective study of patients with EDS treated for EOS between 2012 and 2018 by TGR. For each patient, we evaluated the evolution of the Cobb angle of the main coronal curve before the first surgery, postoperatively and at the last follow-up. We also noted every complication.

Results: Four patients have been evaluated. Age at the index surgery ranged from 3- to 6-year-old. All the patients had a Kyphoscoliosis. The preoperative Cobb angle of the main coronal curve ranged from 70° to 104°. Prior to surgery, a progressive correction of the spinal deformity by Halo-gravity traction was performed for all patients. One patient had several complications with a poor result after final fusion. Three patients did not sustain any complication and presented good results. Follow-up ranged from 3 to 8 years. For two of our patients, further lengthening procedures are still needed.

Conclusions: TGR is a good surgical option for the treatment of EOS in EDS. A progressive preoperative correction is recommended. Anchor-related complications must be minimized in these patients with an important kyphosis. Level of evidence Level IV.