Vertebral body tethering for idiopathic scoliosis in children and young people

Evidence on the safety of vertebral body tethering for idiopathic scoliosis in children and young people is limited but raises concerns of serious complications. Evidence on its efficacy is inadequate in quality and quantity. Therefore, this procedure should only be used in the context of research. Find out what only in research means on the NICE interventional procedures guidance page.

Further research should include randomised controlled trials or analysis of registry data.

This procedure should only be done in specialist centres by spinal surgeons with specific training in anterior spinal surgery.