Scoliosis treatment in children using a programmable, totally implantable muscle stimulator (ESI).
More than ten years ago, we began the night time treatment of early scoliosis in growing children with implanted muscle stimulators [1], [2]. The early devices were radio-frequency (RF) coupled units with an implanted receiver and external transmitter-antenna which the patient used at night to power and activate the implant. Compliance with this treatment was 95 percent. Recent developments have led to the use of a new, totally implantable stimulator for the treatment of single scoliotic curves. The unit has no external components, is programmed and interrogated by telemetry, and is externally switched by the patient using a magnet. Compliance with it continues at a high level, product reliability to date has been perfect, and the clinical results continue good.
Herbert
M A
MA
Bobechko
W P
WP
D002648:Child; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004567:Electrodes, Implanted; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000534:rehabilitation*