Harrington rod

A surgical device used in spinal fusion surgery

The Harrington rod is a type of spinal instrumentation used in the surgical treatment of scoliosis and other spinal deformities. Developed by Dr. Paul Harrington in the 1950s, it was the first device to provide a method for straightening the spine and maintaining its alignment post-surgery.

History

The development of the Harrington rod marked a significant advancement in the treatment of spinal deformities. Prior to its invention, patients with severe scoliosis had limited options, often involving cumbersome braces or ineffective surgical techniques. Dr. Harrington's innovation provided a more reliable method for correcting spinal curvature and stabilizing the spine.

Design and Function

Diagram of Harrington rods in place

The Harrington rod system consists of a stainless steel rod that is attached to the spine using hooks. The rod is designed to apply distraction forces to the spine, thereby straightening it. The hooks are placed on the vertebrae above and below the curve, and the rod is then tightened to correct the deformity.

The system allows for the correction of spinal curvature by applying tension to the rod, which in turn pulls the spine into a more normal alignment. This method was revolutionary at the time of its introduction and laid the groundwork for future developments in spinal instrumentation.

Surgical Procedure

The surgical procedure to implant a Harrington rod involves several steps:

1. Incision and Exposure: The surgeon makes an incision along the back to expose the spine. 2. Placement of Hooks: Hooks are placed on the vertebrae at strategic points above and below the curve. 3. Rod Insertion: The rod is inserted and attached to the hooks. 4. Distraction and Correction: The rod is tightened to apply distraction forces, correcting the spinal curvature. 5. Fusion: Bone grafts are placed to promote spinal fusion, stabilizing the corrected alignment.

Advantages and Limitations

The Harrington rod was a groundbreaking development in spinal surgery, offering several advantages:

• Improved Correction: Provided significant correction of spinal deformities.
• Stability: Offered a stable construct for spinal fusion.

However, the system also had limitations:

• Flatback Syndrome: Patients sometimes developed a condition known as flatback syndrome, characterized by a loss of normal lumbar lordosis.
• Limited Flexibility: The rigid nature of the rod limited spinal flexibility.

Evolution and Modern Use

While the Harrington rod was widely used throughout the latter half of the 20th century, advancements in spinal instrumentation have led to the development of more sophisticated systems. Modern techniques often use segmental instrumentation, which allows for more precise correction and greater flexibility.

Despite being largely replaced by newer technologies, the Harrington rod remains an important part of the history of spinal surgery and paved the way for future innovations.

Related Pages

• Scoliosis
• Spinal fusion
• Orthopedic surgery
• Spinal deformity