Becker's Spine Review: Pediatric spine surgery — Big trends and concepts for the future from Dr. Richard Schwend

By Laura Dyrda

Richard Schwend, MD, director of the orthopedic research program at Children's Mercy Kansas City (Mo.) and chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Orthopaedics, discusses how the pediatric spine field is changing and what to expect in technology development for the future.

Question: What emerging technology or technique do you think will have the biggest impact on the spine field five years from now?

Dr. Richard Schwend: Three key emerging technologies include:

• Growth modulation, tethers in the front, back or combination to guide growth of the spine, maintain flexibility• Minimally invasive growing rod systems that are flexible and allow continued growth but also flexibility• Smart braces that apply corrective forces during motion, in the correct location, direction and pressure, avoiding casting

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Learn more about Orthopedic Research at Children's Mercy