Spine published the results of Leesburg, Va.-based K2M Group Holdings' MESA Rail Deformity Spinal System study in its July 15 issue. The study was titled, "A Uniquely Shaped Rod Improves Curve Correction in Surgical Treatment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis." The MESA Rail includes a beam design offering rigidity for sagittal balance restoration.
Demark-based University of Copenhagen researches studied 129 surgical cases of patients undergoing surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis between May 2011 and May 2015. The study divided the patients into either the beam rod group or the circular rod group. Researchers studied whole spine standing antero-posterior and lateral radiographs pre-operatively and seven day post-operatively.
Here are four takeaways:
1. The study found patients with the beam rod experienced better curve correction (66 percent) compared to patients with the circular rod (57 percent).
2. The MESA Rail group also experienced shorter operative times, less blood loss and shorter hospital stays, compared to the circular rod group.
3. Both the beam rod and circular rod group saw a decrease in thoracic kyphosis.
4. The researchers concluded long-term assessment is required to determine whether curve correction is maintained with the MESA Rail.
"These findings reinforce that low-profile constructs—like MESA Rail with its unique beam-like design—are not only safe, but allow surgeons to achieve a better curve correction, while also reducing, in some patients, the frequency of implant-related discomfort or pain," said Eric Major, president and CEO, K2M.