Our Summary

This research paper looks at the benefits of an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program for teenagers having surgery for idiopathic scoliosis, which is a condition that causes the spine to curve. ERAS programs are designed to help patients recover from surgery faster and with fewer complications. The researchers compared two groups of patients - those who had surgery before the ERAS program was introduced, and those who had surgery after it was introduced. They found that the ERAS program led to a 25% reduction in the length of stay in the hospital after surgery. It also sped up other aspects of recovery, such as when the patient was able to eat solid food, walk, have a bowel movement, and have a catheter removed. The researchers concluded that the ERAS program was very effective, but noted that it was important for the patients and all the healthcare providers to stick to the program for it to work.

FAQs

  1. What is the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program and who can benefit from it?
  2. How does the ERAS program affect recovery after scoliosis surgery for teenagers?
  3. What are some of the specific improvements observed in patients who underwent the ERAS program after their scoliosis surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scoliosis surgery is to follow the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program guidelines closely to help speed up recovery and reduce the length of hospital stay. This may include following instructions for pain management, nutrition, physical activity, and other aspects of post-surgery care. It is important to communicate with your healthcare team and ask any questions you may have about the program to ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Scoliosis surgery is typically recommended for patients who have severe curvature of the spine (greater than 40-50 degrees), progressive curvature that is worsening over time, significant pain or discomfort, or difficulty breathing due to the curvature of the spine. Surgery may also be recommended for patients who have not responded to other treatments such as bracing or physical therapy.

In the case of the ERAS program for teenagers with idiopathic scoliosis, the study focused on patients undergoing surgery for severe curvature of the spine. The ERAS program was found to be beneficial for these patients in terms of reducing the length of hospital stay and improving various aspects of recovery.

It is important for healthcare providers to carefully evaluate each individual patient’s condition and determine whether surgery is the best course of action. Patients with scoliosis should work closely with their healthcare team to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs and goals.

Timeline

Before scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with scoliosis and undergoes various imaging tests to determine the severity of the curvature
  • Patient and their family meet with a spine surgeon to discuss treatment options, including the possibility of surgery
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation, including blood work, physical therapy, and education on the surgery and recovery process
  • Patient may undergo bracing or other non-surgical treatments to try to correct the curvature before surgery

After scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to correct the spinal curvature, which typically involves the insertion of rods, screws, or other devices to straighten the spine
  • Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for pain management, wound healing, and any potential complications
  • Patient begins physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in the spine and surrounding muscles
  • Patient is gradually weaned off pain medication and other medical interventions as they recover
  • Patient may need to wear a brace or undergo ongoing physical therapy to maintain the results of the surgery

Overall, the timeline of scoliosis surgery and recovery can vary depending on the individual patient’s condition, the type of surgery performed, and their overall health. However, with the implementation of an ERAS program, patients may experience a faster and smoother recovery process compared to traditional surgical methods.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about scoliosis surgery include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with scoliosis surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process expected to take?
  3. What type of scoliosis surgery is recommended for my specific condition?
  4. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery in terms of pain relief and improvement of spinal curvature?
  5. Will physical therapy be necessary after surgery, and if so, for how long?
  6. What is the expected timeline for returning to normal activities after surgery?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or limitations to be aware of after scoliosis surgery?
  8. What type of post-operative support or follow-up care will be provided?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before opting for surgery?
  10. What experience does the surgical team have in performing scoliosis surgery, and what is their success rate?

Reference

Authors: Pico J, Sola C, Saour AC, Chapron K, Coruble L, Bringuier S, Dadure C. Journal: Anaesth Crit Care Pain Med. 2022 Oct;41(5):101116. doi: 10.1016/j.accpm.2022.101116. Epub 2022 Jun 25. PMID: 35764223