Question
In reference to my son's rods.  How often do these rods need to be checked as for their strength in the human body for any type of surgery on the spine?  He had them placed in the spine for a congenital malformation. And they were put in on April, 2005.  And about the screw a how and would they be able to tell just in the follow-up X-Rays that they are fine or they are coming loose?

Answer
Although I am not a physician or surgeon, I have researched your question through a physiatrist (rehabilitation medicine doctor.)  I was told that the rods should be checked every six months or so by your son's doctor.  However, your son's doctor knows the condition best so he is the one who can make the best informed decisions regarding your son's care.

The X-rays show the bone, the screws, and the rods so the radiologist can see exactly where the screws are located as well as how well they are seated into the bone.

Thank  you for your question. I hope that this information is useful for you.