Patent ID: 8057472
Filing Date: 2011-11-15
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method of treating scoliosis in a subject comprising: securing a scoliosis treatment device to first and second locations on the subject's skeletal system, the scoliosis treatment device comprising a first portion, a second portion moveably mounted relative to the first portion, and an adjustment device disposed on the device and configured to change a distraction force between the first location and the second location, the adjustment device comprising a rotationally mounted magnetic element configured to move the second portion relative to the first portion in response to rotation of the magnetic element; providing an external adjustment device external to the subject, the external adjustment device comprising a first rotating magnet adapted to rotate about a first axis and a second rotating magnet spaced apart from the first rotating magnet and adapted to rotate about a second, separate axis; and non-invasively adjusting the scoliosis treatment device by moving the first and second rotating magnets of the external adjustment device so as to increase the distraction force between the first location and second location, wherein the angular location of the north pole of the first rotating magnet is substantially equal to the angular location of the south pole of the second rotating magnet through a full rotation of the first and second rotating magnets.