On this week’s Facebook live, Amy L. McIntosh, M.D. joined us to discuss MAGEC rods – an innovative treatment used for early onset scoliosis (EOS). Below is a recap of the conversation.

What is a MAGEC rod?
A MAGEC rod is a growing device technique used for patients diagnosed with early onset scoliosis (EOS) – children under the age of 10. This is a less invasive, innovative treatment which reduces the amount of surgeries a child must undergo.

Qualifications for MAGEC rod treatment:

• Children diagnosed with early onset scoliosis.
• A curve approaching 50 degrees and other forms of treatment (i.e. bracing, casting) have not been successful.

What medical tests are done to determine the severity of a curve?

• Scottish Rite Hospital has an advanced imaging technology call the EOS machine. The system produces long length images of the spine with significantly less radiation than other imaging tools.
• Based off the x-ray, the curve is measured by your doctor to determine the degree.

What happens after the rod is placed?

• After surgery, a patient will stay in the hospital for three to five days on average.
• The back must heal from the surgery and after four to six months, the patient will return to clinic for his or her first lengthening session.

How is the MAGEC rod lengthened?

• Your doctor will use a magnetic wand to locate the magnets in the rod and will make a mark on your back.
• An External Remote Control (ERC) is the device used to expand the rod in your back. The device can make a loud noise, but our Child Life team is there to make your child feel as comfortable as possible.

Can the child be active while having the MAGEC rod?
•    Our doctors support patients being active and staying healthy.
•    Recommended activities include: biking, swimming, walking and hiking while having the MAGEC rod.

Watch this segment on Facebook.