Scoliosis Surgery

SCOLIOSIS SURGERY Adolescent & Juvenile Scoliosis fundamentals In scoliosis, the spine curves from side to side. In most cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown. The condition develops gradually, typically between the ages of 10 and 16, and may progress during your child's growth spurt years. Scoliosis is painless and easy to miss, but can become apparent during a routine physical exam. Diagnosis involves a look at medical and family history, and a physical and neurological exam. If a curve is detected, X-rays are used to pinpoint the location, extent and degree of curvature.

Symptoms of scoliosis include:

. Uneven shoulders or waistline
. One or both shoulder blades sticking out
. Leaning slightly to one side
. A hump on one side of the back

Treatment : Treatment depends on your child's age, bone maturity and the degree and pattern of the curve.

Medical: Bracing is used to temporarily halt the worsening of the curve during a growth spurt. The braces are lightweight and typically only need to be worn at night.

Surgical: If the curve is more than 45 degrees, surgery is the only permanent solution. The goal of surgery is to make the spine straighter. The surgeon fuses the bones of the spine together with the help of bone grafts and uses metallic implants to strengthen that bond. In some cases, surgeons use a less invasive technique. Guided by a thin, telescope-like instrument called an endoscope, they can place metal implants and bone grafts in the spine through small incisions in the abdomen and chest. With this approach, the incision is shorter, recovery is easier, and most patients can leave the hospital after two or three days. Surgery immediately makes the spine straighter, so there is usually no need for bracing afterward. The surgery will permanently stiffen the spine, but mobility and function will not usually be affected.

Rehabilitation involves a gradual return to walking-level activities. Patients can resume normal activity at home. They may take showers five days after the procedure.The child may swim and return to school after six weeks. Typically, no physical therapy is needed. After six weeks of recovery, the child may return to school, then to walking-level activities for three months. The child may return to recreational activities and sports as the physician advises. Patients who undergo scoliosis surgery typically must wait one year before returning to sports.