Dual Growing Rods Combined With the Apical Convex Control Pedicle Screw Technique Versus Traditional Dual Growing Rods for the Surgical Treatment of Early-Onset Scoliosis: A Case-Matched 2-Year Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Combination of apical control convex pedicle screws (ACPS) with traditional dual growing rods (TDGRs) had better apex control ability for early-onset scoliosis (EOS); however, there is a paucity of studies on the ACPS technique. OBJECTIVE: To compare 3-dimensional deformity correction parameters and complications between the apical control technique (DGR + ACPS) and TDGR in the treatment of EOS. METHODS: A retrospective case-match analysis consisting of 12 cases of EOS treated with the DGR + ACPS technique (group A) from 2010 to 2020, and matched with TDGR case (group B) at a ratio of 1:1 by age, sex, curve type, major curve degree, and apical vertebral translation (AVT). Clinical assessment and radiological parameters were measured and compared. RESULTS: Demographic characteristics, preoperative main curve, and AVT were comparable between groups. The correction ability of the main curve, AVT, and apex vertebral rotation were better in group A at index surgery (P