Advanced Techniques and Technology Improving Hip and Spine Care
Arkansas Children's orthopedic team pioneered and adopted multiple new techniques and technologies to deliver the most advanced care. We were among the first in the nation to utilize patient-specific intraoperative hip dysplasia deformity correction during periacetabular osteotomies (PAO). Matt Landrum, M.D., pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Arkansas Children's and assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), said preoperative templating for PAO "is crucial for long-term success in young patients who have a full life ahead of them."
CT scans are translated into a 3D-printed model of the patient's anatomy. "I also work with engineers to template an intraoperative goal correction, which is 3D printed," Dr. Landrum said. "An intraoperative patient-specific arm allows me to check hip dysplasia correction, ensuring we can optimize the patient's hip anatomy."
Scoliosis patients also benefit from templating. The team uses 2D EOS low-dose radiation radiographs or CT scans as needed to create custom-bent, patient-specific UNiD™ rods for scoliosis deformity correction. The team also added the ApiFix® procedure to its range of care options for patients and a Mazor™ robotic guidance system.
Our Surgical Team
Five surgeons care for complex orthopedic needs at Arkansas Children's Hospital; two provide surgical intervention for complex or early onset scoliosis, and three care for congenital and early-onset spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Together, these surgeons perform one or more complex spinal surgeries each week. Each surgeon has a unique background, training and perspective on providing optimal care. In organizations that nurture a culture of innovation, disparate approaches and treatment philosophies benefit patients and providers. Medical team members learn from one another while increasing the overall quality of care delivered.
Collaboration extends beyond the surgeons. Before deciding on a treatment plan, the surgical team meets with everyone involved in the patient's care - pediatric anesthesiologists, pulmonologists, cardiologists and others, depending on individual patient needs. This meeting ensures the entire team understands the child's overall health and reduces the likelihood of unforeseen events occurring during and after surgery. It also provides a mechanism to ensure patient optimization before surgery and that all potential solutions receive appropriate consideration.
Foundation of Innovation
Decades ago, Arkansas Children's Hospital orthopedic surgeon Richard McCarthy, M.D., pioneered the Shilla procedure, a landmark in scoliosis care that permits spinal growth, manages deformity and limits surgical intervention. Over the years, the process has been practiced, studied and refined leading to the use of sliding pedicle screws and the practice of post-operative bracing to improve outcomes.
The drive to innovate and improve motivates pediatric orthopedic specialists to participate in research for congenital scoliosis, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, neuromuscular and syndromic scoliosis, and more. Fostering a culture of innovation inspires orthopedic team members to learn from other experts. As part of multiple research programs, including the Scoliosis Research Society and Pediatric Spine Study Group, they share new findings and learn approaches that may serve future patients well. They also use their knowledge to comfort and educate anxious family members.
Expanding the Body of Knowledge of Pediatric Spinal Care
Arkansas Children’s is a proud and active member of the Pediatric Spine Study Group (PSSG), the international community of providers dedicated to improving the lives of children with chest wall and spine disorders.
The 217 participants enrolled in PSSG through Arkansas Children’s included:
103 cervical spine patients
96 patients with Shilla growth guidance system
34 down syndrome patients
17 congenital scoliosis patients
7 spinal muscular atrophy patients
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Arkansas Children's orthopedic team pioneered and adopted multiple new techniques and technologies to deliver the most advanced care. We were among the first in the nation to utilize patient-specific intraoperative hip dysplasia deformity correction during periacetabular osteotomies (PAO). Matt Landrum, M.D., pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Arkansas Children's and assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), said preoperative templating for PAO "is crucial for long-term success in young patients who have a full life ahead of them."