Mersilene tapes as a substitute for wire in segmental spinal instrumentation for children.

Sublaminar wires for segmental fixation have been a useful adjunct to internal fixation of the spine. Concern over broken wires in the spinal canal or fear of cut-through in soft bone led to the use of Mersilene tape to supplement Harrington or Luque rod fixation in six scoliotic children. No problems of infection or hardware loosening were noted. Mersilene tapes for segmental fixation may be useful where there is concern for wires in the spinal canal or with patients with soft bone and flexible curves.