My son has been wearing a Boston Brace since he was eight years old. He is now almost 13, and his curve is 41 degrees. His doctor recommended one more try at the brace, and also talked about surgery from T2 - T12 as soon as possible, even though he is only Risser 0 and probably has quite a bit of growing to do even though he is 5' 9" but his brother is 6' 5". There is a chance of crankshaft phenomenon also, I was told. When I asked about growth rods, I was told that they are generally used for children much younger than 13. I have also heard about stapling, but I think that is only for younger children also.
1) Are there other types of surgery other than posterior fusion for this age?
2) I was told that about 50% of his growth after fusion would be stopped, and the other 50% would come from the growth in his legs. Does anyone know if that is true, or does it depend on how much of the spine is fused and where it is fused?
Thank you. I appreciate any comments and information.
Jean (Mom to Robert, an almost 13 year old who has been braced for almost five years with a Boston Brace and an idiopathic S curve which seems to be curving more around T2 now than before)
1) Are there other types of surgery other than posterior fusion for this age?
2) I was told that about 50% of his growth after fusion would be stopped, and the other 50% would come from the growth in his legs. Does anyone know if that is true, or does it depend on how much of the spine is fused and where it is fused?
Thank you. I appreciate any comments and information.
Jean (Mom to Robert, an almost 13 year old who has been braced for almost five years with a Boston Brace and an idiopathic S curve which seems to be curving more around T2 now than before)
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