Newcastle Hospitals is one of only two trusts in the country to join a renowned paediatric spine support group (PSSG).
Improving care for scoliosis patients
The PSSG brings together world-leading institutions to help improve care for children with scoliosis.
Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve. Common signs usually appear over time and include uneven shoulders, trunk, or waist.
Scoliosis can present in many different forms; a single hospital or healthcare provider typically doesn’t have a large enough patient group to provide meaningful research results.
Bringing together research and clinical care
To help gather more information on patterns and treatment of scoliosis, the PSSG set up a paediatric spine registry.
In Newcastle, paediatric orthopaedic spinal surgeons Messrs Rushton, Fender, Andrews and Bowey, are working with the paediatric research team to enrol eligible patients to the registry.
Information collected will have a unique identifier code generated and be stored securely. It is hoped that this information could inform future research and the most effective treatment options.
Complex condition
Mr Rushton said:
“Early onset scoliosis is a complex condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious health problems related to the heart and lungs.
“Many children have complex spine and/or chest wall deformities that impact their ability to breathe, sit, and walk.
“There are still many unanswered questions about complex scoliosis. Research is a crucial part of helping us to understand the condition and inform future treatments.
“The spinal registry is a great example of how research and clinical care can work together for the benefit of our patients.”
Further information:
- To find out more about how you can get involved in research at Newcastle Hospitals, visit our website.
- Information about the paediatric spine registry,
- The PSSG is part of the Paediatric Spine Foundation, a charity which aims to improve quality and care of patients and families with chest wall and spine disorders.
