A Comprehensive Guide to Scoliosis Surgery Treatment

Scoliosis is a medical disease defined by an unnatural curve in the spine. There are several forms of scoliosis, depending on the particular location of the aberrant curvature and the patient's age. The most common symptom of scoliosis is abnormal curvature of the spine.

Looking from the front, the spinal curve appears to be straight. Kyphosis and lordosis are the typical curves of the spine as seen from the side. People with scoliosis develop an additional curve in their spine to give it a C-shaped or an S-shaped appearance.

Scoliosis can affect adults as well as children. However, it is most common in people above the age of ten. Furthermore, this disorder is more prevalent in girls than in boys. Lumbar scoliosis refers to a sideways curvature of the lumbar vertebrae.

The most common test used to diagnose scoliosis is Adam’s Forward Bend Test. During this physical examination, the doctor instructs the suspected patient to bend at the waist, hands on the floor, and knees straight. In this position, any anomaly in the spine's curvature is readily apparent.

The abnormal curvature of the spine is usually the first sign of scoliosis.In severe scoliosis following symptoms are follows:

Breathing difficulties
Chest Pain
Shortness of breath

Scoliosis is not usually painful. However, it can result in neck discomfort, back pain, abdominal pain, rib pain, and muscular spasms.

Following are the diagnosis and tests used before Scoliosis Surgery

X-rays of the spine are taken to determine the degree of curvature and to monitor its progression. Full-length standing X-rays are often used to get a complete view of the spine.
An MRI scan may be conducted to provide detailed images of the spine and surrounding tissues. It helps in identifying any abnormalities in the spinal cord or nerves.
A CT scan may be used to get a more detailed view of the spine's bony structures, especially if there are concerns about spinal anatomy.
Pulmonary Function Tests assess lung function to determine if the spinal curvature is affecting breathing and to evaluate respiratory health before surgery.
A bone density test (DEXA scan) might be performed to assess bone strength and the risk of fractures.
Routine blood tests to evaluate overall health, and organ function, and to ensure there are no underlying conditions that could complicate surgery.
A cardiac evaluation, including an ECG or echocardiogram, may be conducted to ensure the heart is healthy enough for surgery.
A neurological assessment is to check for any nerve involvement or neurological deficits caused by the spinal curvature.

The patient is expected to start moving around within two to three days after surgery, but the total hospital stay can range from four to seven days. Children can typically return to school two to four weeks after surgery.

Physical activity must be highly limited to keep the spine immobile and facilitate proper fusion. Bending, twisting, or lifting will be restricted for the first three months. Surgeons often recommend wearing braces for a few months during scoliosis surgery recovery.

Patients will be monitored periodically with X-rays for one to two years until the bone completely fuses and becomes solid. Female patients can still have normal deliveries after undergoing the surgery.