Study of Oral Iron Supplementation to Reduce Blood Transfusions and Improve Recovery in Adolescents and Young Adults Undergoing Spinal Fusion for Scoliosis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether preoperative oral iron supplementation can reduce complications in adolescents with scoliosis undergoing spinal fusion surgery. The study focuses on iron deficiency as a modifiable risk factor that may influence the need for red blood cell transfusions and the decline in cognitive and physical function after surgery. This randomized controlled trial targets adolescent patients, mostly females prone to iron deficiency due to menstrual blood loss, who face risks of blood loss and transfusions during surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either daily oral ferrous sulfate tablets containing 65mg elemental iron or placebo tablets for 3 to 6 months before surgery, depending on the time available before their procedure. Those not qualifying for randomization may join an observational follow-up group to complete study assessments. The trial aims to compare the effects of iron supplementation against placebo on transfusion rates, neurocognitive function, and physical recovery. During the study, participants will undergo blood tests to screen for iron deficiency and be monitored for the need for red blood cell transfusions around the time of surgery. Postoperative assessments will measure changes in cognitive function and self-reported physical capacity up to 3 to 6 months after surgery. The research team will track transfusion incidence and volume within 4 to 30 days post-surgery. The total participation duration includes preoperative supplementation and postoperative follow-up to evaluate outcomes and safety.

Kids With Iron Deficiency and Scoliosis