Scoliosis treatment in children using a programmable, totally implantable muscle stimulator (ESI).

More than ten years ago, we began the night time treatment of early scoliosis in growing children with implanted muscle stimulators [1], [2]. The early devices were radio-frequency (RF) coupled units with an implanted receiver and external transmitter-antenna which the patient used at night to power and activate the implant. Compliance with this treatment was 95 percent. Recent developments have led to the use of a new, totally implantable stimulator for the treatment of single scoliotic curves. The unit has no external components, is programmed and interrogated by telemetry, and is externally switched by the patient using a magnet. Compliance with it continues at a high level, product reliability to date has been perfect, and the clinical results continue good.