Shilla Implants

Shilla implants may be used to help guide the normal growth of the spine. Shilla implants are rods that are attached to screws along the spine, known as anchor points, allowing the spine to continue to grow on its own.

If your child is under the age of 10 and the spinal curvature is severe, surgery may be recommended. Because it is important for your child’s spine to continue to grow, Shilla implants may be used to help guide the normal growth of the spine. Shilla implants are rods that are attached to screws along the spine, known as anchor points, allowing the spine to continue to grow on its own.

With this technique, a spinal fusion is typically performed at the most severe portion of the curve. The Shilla implants or rods are anchored at the top and bottom of the curve. The rods are not directly attached to the spine, so the spine is able to move and grow as guided by the rods.

Once your child has finished growing, the Shilla implants are removed in another surgical procedure.

Your child’s orthopedic surgeon will advise if Shilla implants are recommended based on your child’s spinal curvature, remaining growth and other factors.

Videos

Physicians

Kenneth Bono, MD

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon

Lorena Floccari, MD

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon; Research Director, Spine Center

Todd Ritzman, MD, FAAOS, FAOA

Chair, Department of Orthopedics; Director, Spine Center; Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon

William Schrader, MD

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon