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For more information about research, please call our main office at 412-692-6438.
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This study monitors the application of the Vertical Expandable Prosthetic Titanium Rib (VEPTR), a device with a humanitarian use exemption by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, for treatment of Thoracic Insufficiency Syndrome (TIS) in skeletally immature patients. TIS is the inability of the chest to support normal breathing or lung growth. Expansion of the rib cage with the VEPTR, also known as the “titanium rib,” is a relatively new surgical method aimed at improving deformities and pulmonary function in affected children. Through this technique, a curved metal rod placed vertically between the ribs keeps the chest wall expanding, allowing the lungs to fill with enough air to breathe and to further develop.
Infants and children of both genders will be evaluated by an orthopaedic surgeon, pediatric surgeon and pulmonary specialist to determine eligibility status for this procedure. Boys: Birth to 10 years Girls: Birth to 10 years
After a thorough evaluation, participants will undergo surgical procedure inserting the device that will make the rib cage grow longer and larger as the child develops. The child will need expansion or exchange operations to allow for his/her growth every 4 to 6 months. Additional spine X-rays, lab work and pulmonary function tests will be administered throughout the length of participation. Visits: Multiple Duration: Until skeletal maturity
Synthes North America
To get started, please contact: Joanne A. Londino, RN, BSN 412-692-5772
Children's Hospital's main campus is located in the Lawrenceville neighborhood. Our main hospital address is:
UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh One Children’s Hospital Way 4401 Penn Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15224
In addition to the main hospital, Children's has many convenient locations in other neighborhoods throughout the greater Pittsburgh region.
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