The effect of a device for transverse traction on vertebral rotation in surgery for scoliosis as studied by X-ray stereophotogrammetry.

The effect of a device for transverse traction (DTT) on vertebral rotation in surgery for scoliosis has been analysed with an X ray stereophotogrammetric method in 17 patients. Six of them underwent conventional Harrington rod instrumentation and eleven patients received additional treatment with the DTT. The DTT exerted a positive effect on vertical rotation at the apex, and derotation average 10 degrees as compared with 5 degrees in the group in whom the device was not used.