Spine Program
Specialized Care for Pediatric Spinal Conditions
Manning Family Children’s Spine Program treats children of all ages with all types of spinal deformities and conditions. Our team of pediatric-trained orthopedic providers offer the most comprehensive care for conditions such as scoliosis, kyphosis, stress injuries, trauma and back pain, just to name a few. Using a multidisciplinary approach, we employ the latest techniques and technology, supported by a dedicated spine team, to ensure a safe experience and optimal outcomes for every child.
Why Choose Manning Family Children’s
At Manning Family Children’s, we specialize in caring for all children. We understand that young people’s bones are unique, constantly growing, and require careful attention to ensure they heal correctly. Our team combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate, family-centered care. The pediatric spine specialists understand the unique needs of growing children and works closely with families to create personalized treatment plans. With access to advanced imaging, state-of-the-art diagnostics, and a warm, supportive environment, you can trust that your child is in the very best hands.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
At Manning Family Children’s, we take a comprehensive approach to evaluating and diagnosing spinal deformities in children and adolescents. Our team utilizes advanced imaging technologies to ensure accurate and early diagnosis, which is critical for effective treatment planning. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides detailed images of the spinal cord and surrounding soft tissues, helping to identify underlying conditions such as tethered cord or spinal tumors. Computed Tomography (CT) scans offer high-resolution views of the bony structures of the spine, essential for assessing complex deformities or planning surgical interventions. We also use the EOS imaging system, a low-dose, 3D imaging technology that captures full-body images in a natural standing position, allowing us to evaluate posture and spinal alignment with minimal radiation exposure. These tools, combined with our specialized pediatric expertise, help us deliver the highest level of care for children with scoliosis, kyphosis, and other spinal conditions.
Treatment and Care
The Spine Program offers a full range of treatments including nonsurgical and surgical options. Often, non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, braces (orthotics) and casting are used to treat the condition or to allow the child to grow more before a surgical treatment option is recommended.
We offer traditional spinal surgery options such as spinal fusion with rods and screws, as well as the more advanced procedures such as vertebral body tethering (VBT) which corrects the curvature of the spine while maintaining its mobility, allowing for any remaining growth to occur.
For children with early onset scoliosis, growth sparing surgery may be indicated. This surgical procedure uses magnetic growing rods that are attached to the spine and can be lengthened gradually over time using a special external magnetic device, eliminating the need for repeated invasive surgeries. This innovative approach allows the spine to continue growing while helping to correct the curvature, reducing the physical and emotional toll on both children and their families.
Orthopedic Halo Program (Halo-Gravity Traction)
Manning Family Children's was the first hospital in Louisiana to use Halo-Gravity
Traction treatment, beginning about 25 years ago. Our expert pediatric
orthopedic team remains the only in Louisiana to offer this specialized program.
Halo-Gravity Traction is used for severe spinal deformities like scoliosis, using a halo ring attached to the skull and a weighted pulley system to gently stretch the spine. The technique prepares a patient for surgery by correcting the spinal curvature, making the subsequent surgery less invasive and reducing complication risks. During treatment, patients typically remain in the hospital for several weeks.
Not every child who needs spine surgery will require halo traction, as the Halo treatment process is one that is used for patients with severe scoliosis who are at higher risks during surgery. The Halo-Gravity Traction modality is used to reduce the risk of deformity and spinal cord injury.
Refer a patient
If you are a parent or referring provider, we welcome new patients and second opinions. Please contact us using the following information:
200 Henry Clay Ave.
New Orleans, LA 70118
Phone: 504.899.3496
Fax: 504.896.9849
Manning Family Children’s welcomes referrals from a physician or healthcare providers for a newborn, infant, child, or adolescent, though a referral is not required.