Dr. Jeffrey Sawyer First and Only in Memphis to Perform ApiFix Procedure to Treat Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS)

  • Share:
July 07, 2021
Dr. Jeffrey Sawyer First and Only in Memphis to Perform ApiFix Procedure to Treat Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS)
 
Dr. Jeffrey Sawyer, a pediatric orthopaedic spine surgeon with Campbell Clinic and Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, is the only physician in the Mid-South performing the ApiFix procedure, a new surgical technique to treat adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Scoliosis, a side-to-side curvature of the spine greater than 10 degrees, is the most common deformity in children. AIS is the most common type of scoliosis and it occurs in late childhood or adolescence. The cause of AIS is unknown. 
 
In many cases, AIS curves are stable. However, in some cases, the curve continues to progress over time. For curves that are progressing, treatment options could include bracing or surgery, such as a spinal fusion. The ApiFix procedure was developed to provide a viable alternative to both bracing and fusion for select patients.
 
The ApiFix procedure uses a posterior approach familiar to pediatric orthopaedic surgeons and involves only three anchor points on one side of the spine. The novel design of the ApiFix system features polyaxial joints, enabling post-operative spinal motion, and a self-adjusting rod, accommodating further patient growth. The procedure usually takes less than 2 hours with patients typically staying in the hospital 1-2 days after the procedure. Since 2012, more than 500 AIS patients have been treated with the ApiFix procedure.
 
“The ApiFix procedure is a real breakthrough in the treatment of scoliosis in adolescents," says Dr. Sawyer. "The procedure is less invasive and enables more spinal motion compared to today’s primary surgical option, a spinal fusion. In appropriate patients, the ApiFix procedure can be an excellent option when bracing has not been effective or as an alternative to fusion.”
 
Dr. Sawyer is a board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric spine surgeon who has practiced more than 20 years, and for 15 years at Campbell Clinic and Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. He is a board member of the Pediatric Spine Foundation, member of the Scoliosis Research Society and the Incoming president of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (2023). He has published over 20 textbook chapters and over 120 scientific articles, many related to pediatric spine trauma and deformities. For more information on Dr. Jeffrey Sawyer, visit www.campbellclinic.com/physician/jeffrey-sawyer/
 
To learn more about the ApiFix procedure please visit www.apifix.com
 
About Campbell Clinic:
Founded by the late Willis C. Campbell, M.D. in 1909, Campbell Clinic is world-renowned for its clinical excellence. With office locations in Germantown, TN; Collierville, TN; Memphis, TN; and Southaven MS, Campbell Clinic is an industry leader in orthopaedic medicine, surgery, teaching and research. For more information, call 901-759-3111 or visit www.campbellclinic.com
Contact:
Beth Okeon
beth@abomarketing.com, (901) 409-7607