556

11.3.9\ Scoliosis Rods

are placed, the rods can provide either compres-

sion or distraction. Perhaps the most common

11.3.9.1\ Discussion

usage of these rods is for treatment of severe

A variety of rods are used for posterior spinal

fixation in the treatment of scoliosis, including

Harrington, Knodt, and Luque (Figs. 11.54,

Complications include rod fracture or disloca-

11.55, and 11.56). In contrast to threaded Knodt

tion and screw pullout, which can be predisposed

rods, Harrington rods feature flanged ends, which

by the high torque inherent to the length of the

can attach to laminar hooks. Harrington rods are

hardware (Figs. 11.57, 11.58, and 11.59). The

usually paired and interconnected by segmental

thoracolumbar fixation hardware may also lead

wires for added stability. Luque rods are spino-

to “flat-back” syndrome, in which there is loss of

pelvic fixation devices that can be used to treat

lumbar lordosis (Fig. 11.60). Scout and 3D CT

scoliosis, among other applications. The appara-

reconstructions are particularly helpful for evalu-

tus has a characteristic L shape in which the infe-

ating mechanical complications, while MRI

rior angled portion can be affixed to the ilium.

might be more useful for assessing spinal canal

Depending on the direction in which the hooks

involvement.

558

D.T. Ginat et al.