Hospital-Based Cluster Trial: Magnetically Controlled Growing Rods Using Distraction Intervals
United States, Canada, Finland210 participantsStarted 2019-11-01
Plain-language summary
A hospital-based cluster stratified randomization control study will be conducted to investigate spinal growth in Early Onset Scoliosis patients between 5 and 9 years of age. Patients must have a major coronal curve measuring over 50 degrees and be undergoing Magnetically Controlled Growing Rod treatment. We will be studying 6-week lengthening intervals compared to 16-week lengthening intervals on spinal growth within 3 years.
Who can participate
Age range
5 Years – 9 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* All patients with diagnosis of Early Onset Scoliosis (scoliosis before age 10)
* Between 5 and 9 years of age (5.0 to 9.9 years)
* Major curve greater than 50 degrees at time of index surgery
* Dual-rod Magnetically Controlled Growing Rod implantation only
* Spine or rib-based constructs
* Pre-operative and intra-operative halo gravity traction is allowed
Exclusion Criteria:
* Patients with previous spine surgery, including other growth friendly techniques
* Patients who cannot abide by the study requirements due to geographical or other similar constraints
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.