The use of electronic conductivity devices can effectively reduce radiation exposure in vertebral body tethering

[摘要] Introduction Vertebral body tethering (VBT) presents new challenges in respect to radiation exposure, as screws cannot be placed free-hand and the lateral positioning of the patients increases scattered radiation. To reduce radiation exposure, we introduced the use of electronic conductivity device (ECD). These are drilling probes send an audio signal when cortical bone is breached. Thus, anterior, bicortical screws can be placed without multiple fluoroscopic controls. ECD has been used for all VBT procedures at our institution starting April 2020. The aim of this study was to test the safety of ECD and its efficacy in radiation reduction in comparison with the current standard, the fluoroscopic guidance.

[学科分类] 骨科学

[关键词] Scoliosis;Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis;Vertebral body tethering;Radiation exposure;Electronic conductivity device