Pediatric Spine Services

From common idiopathic adolescent scoliosis to the most complex young spine deformities, we believe each child deserves an individualized treatment plan utilizing the most advanced and innovative techniques. Our focus is on early detection, fusionless treatments for the growing spine, as well as minimally invasive and advanced surgical techniques in those children who require spine fusion.

We have a fully integrated team approach to the treatment of pediatric spine conditions, including:

• Spine surgeons (orthopaedic and neurosurgery trained)
• Thoracic surgeons
• Pediatric intensivists
• Physician assistants
• Advance practice nurses
• In-house orthotists
• Therapists
• Researchers

Why Choose Shriners Hospitals for Children –Philadelphia

• Our primary focus is the growing pediatric spine
• We employ world-renowned pediatric spine surgeons
• We offer the latest advances and technology in spine care
• Vertebral body stapling
• VEPTR™
• Thorascopic anterior spine fusion
• Wedge osteotomies
• Our medical team members are leaders in development of new derotation techniques for correction of  idiopathic scoliosis
• We are the leading training center for fusionless, early onset scoliosis, advanced deformity techniques and minimally invasive spine surgery
• We offer conservative treatment expertise including bracing and serial (Mehta) casting
• We host support groups for parents
• We believe in a family-centered-care approach

Spine Conditions Frequently Seen

• Idiopathic scoliosis, including infantile, juvenile and adolescent
• Congenital scoliosis
• Scoliosis with syndromes, including VACTERL, Marfan, NF and Jarcho-Levin
• Scoliosis with fused or absent ribs
• Scoliosis after thoracotomy
• Hemivertebrae
• Thoracic insufficiency syndrome and other rib cage impairments
• Klippel-Feil
• Tortcollis
• Upper cervical instability
• Neuromuscular scoliosis associated with spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy and spina bifida
• Kyphosis, including Scheuermann's, congenital, postural and post-surgical
• Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis
• Curve progression after spine surgery
• Abnormal posture