In this episode, co-hosts Sam and Ammi from the University of Ottawa’s TMM program are in conversation with Dr. Kevin Smit, a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon and Clinical Researcher at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO).

The conversation centers around Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS), which is an abnormal curvature of the spine with no known cause, and can have a significant impact on the lives of its young patients. Dr. Smit is a part of inspiring new research on a developing treatment that could help preserve patient mobility while correcting the curve, called Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT). Here, we discuss AIS and its impact, as well as what makes VBT a unique and promising treatment.

To read the full study: https://doi.org/10.1007/s43390-022-00578-6
Maksimovic, M. et al. The effect of vertebral body tethering on spine range of motion in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A pilot study. Spine Deformity 11, 123–131 (2022).

00:04 Introduction

01:11 | As a clinician and researcher, how do you balance these 2 aspects of your life?

02:20 | How do you explain treatment options to your young patients?

04:49 | How do patient impacts inform your research?

09:44 | Are there risks/complications associated with that surgery and recovery?

11:32 | Does having that shoelace allow the patients more motion?

13:36 | Where do you see this research leading?

14:37 | Thank you!

14:47 Outro & Credits

Music: “Lounging Lads” from the Lofi Phantasy album by DanAndPhilBEATS and Lowave.

Saeid Kholgi (producer), Samantha Kiraly (co-host & writing), Ammi Paul (co-host & post-production), Moumita Dutta (writing & social media production)