Scoliosis Correction

Spinal fusion surgery is the treatment for scoliosis. The goal is to straighten the spine and have the bent vertebrae heal together as one solid bone. Scoliosis surgeons now have access to better tools and technologies, allowing them to make major improvements to patients’ curves. Even after reaching adulthood, a curvature of more over 45 to 50 degrees almost always worsens. This might worsen the aesthetic deformities in your back and perhaps compromise your ability to breathe. The doctor suggests getting surgery. In a growing youngster, there is some uncertainty about whether or not surgery should be indicated for a curve between 40 and 50 degrees.

The goal of a spinal fusion is to have the bent vertebrae heal together into a single, solid bone. If this is done, the aberrant area of the spine will no longer develop, and the curvature will not worsen. Bone grafts, also known as bone substitutes, are used in all spinal fusion procedures. In order to fuse vertebrae, it is common practice to insert tiny fragments of bone into the crevices between them. This process is analogous to how a fractured bone heals, with the bones gradually growing back together. Until spinal fusion can occur, the spine is often held in place using metal rods. Screws, hooks, and/or wires secure the rods to the spinal column.

How far your scoliosis can bend before surgery will determine how much it can be straightened by medical intervention. The greater your range of motion, the more successful the surgical correction of your curvature will be. After surgery, the vast majority of patients had curves reduced to less than 25 degrees. These little arcs are often imperceptible.