About four of every 1,000 children are diagnosed with scoliosis, a sideways curvature of the spine. This disorder is typically characterized by one hip being higher than the other or the rib cage becoming twisted. Treatment usually begins with bracing, and if that does not work, surgery is the next option. In 2007, stem cell treatment began to be implemented as well.
Stem Cells
Adult stem cells, rather than the controversial embryonic stem cells, are used for the scoliosis treatment. These cells are capable of regenerating themselves and can differentiate into other cell types.
Spinal Fusion
The most common surgery for scoliosis is the fusing of two or more vertebrae to prevent further curving. Pelvic bone is taken to use for the spinal fusion, and implants or rods are inserted to keep the back straight after surgery.
Disadvantages of Spinal Fusion
The disadvantages of spinal fusion are future limitation of patient movement and significant pain involved in harvesting pelvic bone.
Method
With the new treatment, a small amount of crushed bone from the hospital bone bank can be used instead of pelvic bone, because stem cells will create new bone.
Treatment Advantages
Stem cell treatment for scoliosis thus eliminates the need for an additional surgical procedure as well as the extra pain involved. Stem cells also speed the healing process.
Tags: cell treatment, pain involved, pelvic bone, stem cells