Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) has emerged as the most advanced motion-preserving scoliosis treatment for children and adolescents. Unlike traditional spinal fusion, this innovative technique:
✔ Corrects spinal curvature while allowing continued growth
✔ Uses a flexible cord system instead of rigid rods
✔ Preserves natural spine mobility
✔ Reduces recovery time by 50% compared to fusion
At Travel For Med, we connect families with world-leading pediatric spine specialists in Turkey who pioneer this life-changing procedure.
How VBT Works: The Science Behind the Technique
The VBT Procedure Step-by-Step
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Small incisions (3-4 tiny openings)
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Screw placement along vertebrae
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Polyethylene cord attachment to convex side
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Progressive correction as child grows
Key Differences from Spinal Fusion
| Feature | VBT | Spinal Fusion |
|---|---|---|
| Growth Preservation | Yes | No |
| Spinal Mobility | Maintained | Restricted |
| Recovery Time | 4-6 weeks | 3-6 months |
| Future Flexibility | Normal | Limited |
Ideal Candidates for Vertebral Body Tethering
Perfect Patient Profile
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Age 8-16 years (with significant growth remaining)
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Cobb angle 30-65 degrees
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Progressive idiopathic scoliosis
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Flexible curves (correctable on bending films)
Conditions Where VBT Excels
✔ Thoracic curves (most common type)
✔ Double major curves (when properly selected)
✔ Patients with Risser sign 0-2 (significant growth potential)
The VBT Advantage: Why It’s Becoming the Gold Standard
Clinical Benefits
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Growth modulation – The tether guides straight growth
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Fewer motion restrictions – No “metal rod” stiffness
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Lower complication rates – 5% vs 15% with fusion
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Revision flexibility – Can convert to fusion if needed
Quality of Life Improvements
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Return to sports in 3 months (vs 6-12 with fusion)
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No restrictions on bending/twisting
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Natural spine development continues
The VBT Procedure in Turkey: Why It’s Superior
Turkish Pediatric Spine Centers Offer
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Surgeons with 100+ VBT cases experience
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3D surgical planning with AI assistance
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Intraoperative neuromonitoring standard
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JCI-accredited children’s hospitals
Cost Comparison
| Country | Average VBT Cost |
|---|---|
| Turkey | $28,000 |
| USA | $85,000 |
| UK | £65,000 |
| Germany | €72,000 |
*Includes: Surgery, 5-day hospital stay, 2-year follow-ups*
Recovery & Long-Term Outcomes
Post-Op Timeline
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Hospital stay: 3-5 days
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Brace: Optional (2-4 weeks)
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Return to school: 2-3 weeks
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Sports clearance: 3 months
Expected Correction
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50-70% curve reduction immediately
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Additional 10-15% improvement over 2 years
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Final results at skeletal maturity
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the tether work over time?
A: It acts like “orthodontics for the spine” – gradually guiding growth into proper alignment.
Q: Can the tether break?
A: Modern cords have <2% breakage rate. If occurs, can be repaired minimally invasively.
Q: Is VBT FDA-approved?
A: Yes, approved in 2019 after extensive trials showing superior outcomes.
Begin Your Child’s Scoliosis Journey with Travel For Med
We provide:
✔ Top VBT specialists in Turkey
✔ Virtual second opinions with scoliosis experts
✔ All-inclusive treatment packages
✔ Lifetime outcome tracking
Give your child the gift of natural growth:
Contact Travel For Med Today for a free VBT consultation.
