Expandable rod system to treat scoliosis and method of using the same

Abstract

Correction of a scoliotic curve in a spine includes the steps of implanting an expanding rod isolated completely under the skin and attached to selected portions of the scoliotic curve of the spine at opposing ends of the rod; and producing a controlled force by means of expansion of the rod over at an extended time period under external control until a desire spinal curve is obtained. An incremental force is generated to stretch the scoliotic curve of the spine between the selected portions where attachment of the rod is defined. The controlled force is provided steadily for at least one month or alternatively 1-3 months. Multiple rods may be employed with each associated with a different scoliotic curve of the spine or a different portion of the scoliotic curve.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method for correction of a scoliotic curve in a spine of a subject, the method comprising:
 implanting an expandable rod subcutaneously within the subject, the expandable rod including:
 a first end configured to be coupled to a first vertebra; and 
 a second end configured to be coupled to a second vertebra, 
 wherein the first end includes an inner member moveably coupled to and telescopically received by an outer member of the second end, and 
   externally applying a controlled, incremental force to the expandable rod; and   displacing the first end relative to the second end such that a force is applied to the scoliotic curve to modify the scoliotic curve.   
     
     
         2 . A system for correction of a scoliotic curve in a spine of a subject, the system comprising:
 an expandable rod configured to be implanted subcutaneously within the subject, the expandable rod including:
 a first end configured to be coupled to a first vertebra; 
 a second end configured to be coupled to a second vertebra, 
 wherein the first end includes an inner member moveably coupled to and telescopically received by an outer member of the second end; and 
 means for displacing the first end relative to the second end such that a force is applied to the scoliotic curve to modify the scoliotic curve.