Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT)
For families exploring growth-friendly scoliosis treatments, vertebral body tethering (VBT) has become an exciting option. Unlike traditional spinal fusion, VBT allows for continued growth and flexibility while guiding the spine toward a straighter position. For the right patients, this fusionless procedure can mean improved alignment, preserved motion, and a more natural spine during the growing years.
At The Scoliosis & Spine Deformity Institute, we specialize in providing children and teens with safe, effective options for scoliosis correction. Families from across Texas, as well as out-of-state and international patients, turn to our institute for advanced procedures like VBT delivered with compassionate, family-focused care.
Our practice provides consultations and surgical care at three Texas locations: The Woodlands (Houston), Plano (Dallas), and Corpus Christi, with The Woodlands serving as our primary center. Houston’s global reputation for medical excellence also makes it an accessible destination for families traveling from outside the state or abroad.
To schedule a consultation, call (833) SPINE 11 or email [email protected] today.
What is Vertebral Body Tethering?
Vertebral body tethering is a minimally invasive procedure designed for children and teens with scoliosis who still have significant growth remaining. Instead of permanently fusing the spine, VBT uses a flexible cord (the “tether”) attached to screws placed along the outside of the spinal curve.
As the child grows, the tether gently guides the spine into a straighter position. This dynamic correction allows the spine to maintain mobility and flexibility while addressing the curve.
Is My Child a Candidate?
VBT is not for every patient, but it can be an excellent option for some children and teens. Candidates often include:
- Patients with scoliosis curves greater than 40 degrees
- Children or teens who still have significant growth left
- Families seeking a motion-preserving, non-fusion approach
- Patients whose spines are flexible enough to respond to tethering
Each child is carefully evaluated through imaging, growth assessments, and medical history. Dr. Siddiqui works closely with families to determine whether VBT is the right choice for their child.
Preserving Motion, Protecting Growth
Families often consider VBT because of its unique ability to correct scoliosis without sacrificing spinal motion. Some of the most important benefits include:
- Preserves spinal flexibility and mobility
- Allows the spine to grow straighter over time
- Helps maintain balance and posture
- Gives many children the ability to stay active in sports and physical activities
- Offers a growth-friendly option during critical developmental years
For the right patient, VBT combines correction with freedom of movement - something fusion surgery cannot provide.
What Families Can Expect After Surgery
Recovery after VBT is typically faster than with spinal fusion. Most children spend only a few days in the hospital before returning home. Light activities usually resume within a few weeks, and many children are able to return to sports, dance, or other activities they enjoy as healing continues.
Follow-up care is important since the tether works gradually as the child grows. Some children may need adjustments or additional procedures later, but many achieve lasting correction without ever requiring fusion surgery. Parents often say that beyond straighter posture, the biggest change they notice is their child’s renewed confidence and comfort in daily life.
Why Families Choose Dr. Siddiqui
Dr. Saqib Siddiqui has devoted his career to helping children, teens, and adults with scoliosis find lasting solutions. He is fellowship-trained in spine deformity surgery and has more than 20 years of experience performing advanced procedures, including vertebral body tethering. Families value not only his technical skill, but also his ability to explain options clearly and provide reassurance at every stage of care.
Parents across Texas and around the world trust Dr. Siddiqui for his combination of innovation, precision, and compassionate, family-centered treatment.
Out-of-State and International Patients
Many families travel to Houston for scoliosis surgery because of its reputation as one of the world’s top medical destinations. At The Scoliosis & Spine Deformity Institute, we welcome patients from across the United States and abroad who are seeking growth-friendly options like vertebral body tethering.
Our team provides guidance to make the process easier, from coordinating consultations to helping families plan their stay in Houston or Dallas. By combining world-class surgical care with personal support, we ensure families feel confident and cared for every step of the way.
Coverage and Financial Guidance
The Scoliosis & Spine Deformity Institute does not accept Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, or HMO insurance plans. For pediatric cases, we work with qualifying commercial insurance or self-pay options. Our team assists families in understanding coverage and financial arrangements so they can focus fully on their child’s care.
Take the Next Step
If your child has progressive scoliosis and is still growing, vertebral body tethering may provide a motion-preserving alternative to fusion surgery.
Call (833) SPINE 11 or email [email protected] to request your consultation at any of our Texas locations.
The Scoliosis & Spine Deformity Institute proudly serves families throughout Texas, as well as out-of-state and international patients, providing world-class scoliosis care with growth-friendly options like vertebral body tethering.
