Scoliosis Surgery

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Scoliosis refers to an abnormal side-to-side curvature of the spine. Some people are born with scoliosis (congenital), others develop it during childhood or adolescence.

The most common type of scoliosis is adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The term “idiopathic” is a medical term meaning “of unknown cause.”

Adults can develop scoliosis, too, but this is rare. Adult scoliosis is usually the result of untreated childhood scoliosis or some type of degenerative spinal condition.

Scoliosis is not always treated with surgery. When scoliosis worsens, it can cause severe pain, deformity, limited mobility, and may even impair the heart and lung function. In such cases, surgery may be recommended.

The Goals of Scoliosis Surgery

Scoliosis surgery is performed to accomplish two goals. First, to stop spinal curvature from worsening by surgically stabilizing the spine. The second goal of scoliosis surgery is to correct deformity.

What happens during scoliosis surgery?

Scoliosis surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon may approach the spine from the front (anterior), back (posterior), or side (between the ribs). In some cases, minimally invasive techniques are used to minimize incision size and tissue injury.

Every scoliosis surgery is different. The surgeon may remove one or more discs. In an effort to recontour the spine, the surgeon may perform an osteotomy; cut away bone to create a more natural shape. If discs are removed (discectomy), the surgeon fuses the vertebrae together using bone graft and, if necessary, instrumentation.

Scoliosis surgery can be complex and may one or more hours to complete.

After Surgery

Once surgery is completed and before the patient wakes up, X-rays are taken to confirm appropriate curve correction and instrumentation placement.  The patient usually wakes up in the recovery room.. A nurse monitors the patient's vital signs and is wheeled into their hospital room. A short hospital stay is typical, but varies depending on the complexity of the surgery and the patient's general health.

Postoperative pain is normal after scoliosis surgery and is managed with pain medication.

What to Expect After Scoliosis Surgery

Scoliosis surgery can:

• Restore a more normal curvature of the spine
• Improve appearance, posture, balance, and coordination
• Relieve pain

Your surgeon can help you decide if scoliosis surgery is right for your type of scoliosis.