What is Scoliosis Surgery?

Scoliosis is the spinal disorder where the spine curves sideways, resembling the letter "S" or "C". It is most commonly found during late childhood, as a child undergoes their growth spurt right before puberty. It is a common spine condition, with thousands of children being diagnosed with scoliosis every year. Most cases of scoliosis are mild, that do not do much to harm the patient. Serious cases of scoliosis can be very damaging if not corrected.

Many people diagnosed with minor scoliosis can go about their lives without much consequence, if any. Non surgical treatments, such as a Boston brace, can help stop the progression of increasing spine curvature if needed. However, the only way to actually straighten out and reduce the curvature is scoliosis surgery, also known as a spinal fusion.

Spinal fusion surgery is the process of fusing two or more vertebrae together to provide stability and alignment. Metal rods are attached to the spine to keep the vertebrae firmly together, and over time, the vertebrae will actually fuse together. Scoliosis surgery is only recommended for patients with at least an angle of spine curvature of 40 degrees or more.

Open spine surgery of this nature is a very aggressive process. It will require about 6 hours in the operating room. The patient will have to be hospitalized for at least a week before the doctor will release them. It will take a few months before full strength and range of motion return to the patient - it will be an average of six months before the doctor will allow the patient to resume all types of activities.