Unit rod segmental spinal instrumentation for the treatment of neuromuscular scoliosis.

The Unit Rod was developed at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto for the surgical correction of scoliosis and pelvic obliquity associated with neuromuscular disease. Its unique contour and design allows fixation into the pelvis and decreases complications encountered with other segmental systems. Perioperative nursing care and the psychosocial impact of surgery on the family are addressed in this article. A case study is included.