You can find a list of qualified Tether surgeons by using our Surgeon Locator: https://www.myscoliosis.com/surgeon-locator.
Surgeons listed on our Surgeon Locator have received extensive training for The Tether and many are well-versed in other treatment options if The Tether is not an option for you. Only certified surgeons are listed on the surgeon finder at https://www.myscoliosis.com/surgeon-locator.
Tether certification includes detailed lectures on indications, patient selection, HDE approval and surgical technique overview. It also includes a hands-on experience where surgeons simulate a real surgical procedure on a torso model, utilizing the thoracoscopic approach. The last step is typically a surgical observation, where surgeons spend a day in the O.R. with an experienced faculty member.
The surgeon finder is a free service, helping patients to find qualified surgeons. Since surgeons must choose to be included in the surgeon finder, the surgeon finder list on https://www.myscoliosis.com may not represent the complete list of all trained Tether surgeons. You should inquire directly with your surgeon about their Tether training status and surgical experience.
It is not unusual for patients to travel out-of-state to be treated with The Tether. Many Tether surgeons are familiar and comfortable with out-of-state patients. They will oftentimes conduct appointments with you via telemedicine. This will give you the opportunity to get to know your surgeon prior to the day of your procedure.