A new spinal growth system for treating early-onset spinal deformity in children

R-FIX (Rib-FIXation) Spinal Growth System for Early-onset Spinal Deformity

['FUNDING_SBIR_2'] · APEX ORTHOPAEDIC TECHNOLOGIES LLC · NIH-11013594

This study is working on a new way to help young children under 10 with spinal problems by using a special system that connects to their ribs, aiming to make their spines grow straighter and healthier.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_2']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorAPEX ORTHOPAEDIC TECHNOLOGIES LLC (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MOUNT PLEASANT, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11013594 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing the R-FIX (Rib-FIXation) Spinal Growth System, which aims to treat early-onset spinal deformity in children under 10 years old. The approach involves using rib-based fixation techniques to correct spinal and thoracic alignment, which is crucial for the growth and development of young patients. The project includes finalizing the design and manufacturing of the system, as well as conducting necessary safety and efficacy tests. By shifting the focus from traditional intra-spinal methods to an extra-spinal approach, this research seeks to improve treatment outcomes for a challenging orthopedic condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under the age of 10 who are diagnosed with early-onset spinal deformity.

Not a fit: Patients with spinal deformities that develop after the age of 10 or those with non-life-threatening conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective treatment option for children with early-onset spinal deformity.

How similar studies have performed: This approach is considered novel, as it represents a significant shift from traditional methods, although similar concepts have shown promise in other orthopedic applications.

Where this research is happening

MOUNT PLEASANT, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.