Our Summary

This research paper looked at the outcomes of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who underwent different types of spinal correction surgery. They analyzed surgeries between 2016 and 2020 and divided them into three groups based on the surgical approach: posterior spinal fusion (PSF), single long-incision minimally invasive surgery (SLIM), and traditional minimally invasive surgery with three incisions (3MIS).

The study found that patients who had the PSF surgery had more blood loss and stayed in the hospital longer than the other two groups. They also needed more morphine during their hospital stay. However, they had less postoperative kyphosis, which is a type of spinal deformity.

On the other hand, the surgical time was longer with the 3MIS procedure compared to the other two. But patients who underwent SLIM and 3MIS were more likely to return to non-contact and contact sports within six months and reported less pain at six months after the surgery.

In conclusion, the study suggests that the SLIM procedure has the same operative time as PSF and is technically similar, but has the benefits of the 3MIS procedure in terms of surgical and postoperative outcomes.

FAQs

  1. What were the differences in outcomes between the three types of spinal surgery studied?
  2. Which surgery resulted in patients being more likely to return to sports within six months?
  3. What are the benefits of the SLIM procedure compared to the PSF and 3MIS procedures?

Doctor’s Tip

Therefore, a helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient considering spinal surgery is to discuss with their surgeon the different surgical approaches available and the potential benefits and risks of each option. It is important for the patient to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure in order to make an informed decision that best fits their individual needs and goals for their recovery.

Suitable For

Overall, patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who are recommended for spinal surgery typically have a significant spinal deformity that is causing pain, discomfort, or functional limitations. They may have tried non-surgical treatments such as bracing or physical therapy without success, or their condition may be severe enough to warrant surgical intervention.

Patients with other spinal conditions such as degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or spinal fractures may also be recommended for spinal surgery if conservative treatments have not provided relief or if their condition is worsening.

In general, the decision to recommend spinal surgery is based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, physical examination, imaging studies (such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans), and consideration of the risks and benefits of surgery. The goal of spinal surgery is typically to correct the spinal deformity, relieve pain, improve function, and prevent further progression of the condition.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline for a patient undergoing spinal surgery typically involves:

  • Pre-surgery consultations with the surgeon, including discussing the surgical approach and potential risks and benefits.
  • Pre-operative testing and preparation, such as blood tests and imaging scans.
  • The surgery itself, which can vary in duration depending on the type of procedure.
  • Post-operative recovery in the hospital, which may involve pain management, physical therapy, and monitoring for complications.
  • Discharge from the hospital and continued recovery at home, including follow-up appointments with the surgeon.
  • Rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the spine.
  • Long-term follow-up to monitor for any potential complications or changes in the spine.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the different surgical approaches available for my condition, and what are the pros and cons of each?

  2. What can I expect in terms of pain management during and after the surgery?

  3. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery, and what is the expected recovery time?

  4. What are the potential risks and complications associated with spinal surgery, and how likely are they to occur in my case?

  5. Will I need any additional treatments or therapies after the surgery, such as physical therapy or pain management?

  6. How will the surgery affect my daily activities, such as work, exercise, and recreational activities?

  7. What are the long-term outcomes and potential complications of the surgery, and how will my condition be monitored post-surgery?

  8. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before deciding on spinal surgery?

  9. How experienced are you in performing the specific type of spinal surgery recommended for me, and what is your success rate with this procedure?

  10. Can you provide me with any patient testimonials or references from individuals who have undergone similar spinal surgeries with successful outcomes?

Reference

Authors: Sarwahi V, Visahan K, Hasan S, Patil A, Grunfeld M, Atlas A, Galina J, Ansorge A, Lo Y, Amaral TD, Dayer R. Journal: Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2024 Mar 1;49(5):356-363. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000004752. Epub 2023 Jun 20. PMID: 37339279