Understanding scoliosis in individuals with myelomeningocele

Penn State Spina Bifida Clinic Registry

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-11141539

This study is looking at how scoliosis is connected to other health issues in kids and adults with myelomeningocele, to help doctors find better ways to treat scoliosis in these patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hershey, United States)
Project IDNIH-11141539 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex relationship between scoliosis and various neurological and musculoskeletal factors in children and adults with myelomeningocele. The team will analyze data from the National Spina Bifida Patient Registry to identify neurosurgical factors that contribute to the need for scoliosis correction. They will examine the frequency of scoliosis surgeries, the variability in treatment across clinics, and the impact of prior tethered cord release on surgical outcomes. By understanding these relationships, the research aims to improve treatment strategies for scoliosis in this population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with myelomeningocele who are experiencing scoliosis or are at risk for developing it.

Not a fit: Patients without myelomeningocele or those who do not have scoliosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment protocols for scoliosis in individuals with myelomeningocele, potentially improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the underlying factors of scoliosis in similar populations can lead to improved surgical outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Hershey, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.