Anterior Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) System
Anterior VBT system has been introduced into our Implant Sponsorship program since 2020. It has been recently developed with specific vertebral body screws and a tether made of polyethylene that can be inserted via a minimally invasive approach with the aid of a thoracoscope. Anterior VBT is proving to be a promising technique for skeletally immature patients with idiopathic scoliosis. This technique can be performed safely and potentially result in progressive correction. VBT acts as an internal brace during growth, and if successful, it may avoid an open fusion surgery, and the patient may retain a free range of movement of the spine. The University of Hong Kong is the first centre to perform anterior VBT in the Greater China region.