Our Summary

This research paper discusses a condition known as congenital scoliosis, which is a sideways curvature of the spine that’s present from birth due to irregularities in the vertebrae. It’s often linked with other inborn abnormalities in different organ systems. Traditionally, the main treatment for individuals with this condition was a surgery known as posterior spinal fusion. However, newer surgical treatments for young children include the use of growing rods, expandable titanium ribs, and more recently, magnetic rods. Another effective early treatment is the removal of a malformed vertebra, known as a hemivertebra. The paper also suggests that using real-time guidance during surgery could help enhance the precision of screw placement in patients with irregular spinal structures.

FAQs

  1. What is congenital scoliosis?
  2. What are the current surgical treatment options for congenital scoliosis in young children?
  3. What is the role of intraoperative navigation in scoliosis surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scoliosis surgery is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including attending physical therapy sessions and avoiding certain activities that could put strain on the spine. It is important to work closely with your healthcare team to ensure a successful recovery and optimal outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for scoliosis surgery are those who have a severe curvature of the spine that is causing pain, difficulty breathing, or affecting their quality of life. This may include patients with congenital scoliosis, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, or neuromuscular scoliosis. Surgery may also be recommended for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as bracing or physical therapy. Additionally, surgery may be recommended for patients who have a progressive curvature of the spine that is likely to worsen over time. Ultimately, the decision to undergo scoliosis surgery is made on a case-by-case basis by a team of medical professionals, taking into consideration the patient’s individual circumstances and goals for treatment.

Timeline

Before scoliosis surgery:

  1. Diagnosis: The patient is diagnosed with scoliosis through physical examination, X-rays, and possibly other imaging tests.
  2. Consultation with a spine specialist: The patient meets with a spine specialist to discuss treatment options and determine if surgery is necessary.
  3. Pre-operative preparation: The patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
  4. Education: The patient and their family receive education on what to expect during and after surgery, as well as potential risks and complications.

After scoliosis surgery:

  1. Hospitalization: The patient undergoes surgery to correct the curvature of their spine and is hospitalized for a period of time for recovery.
  2. Pain management: The patient is given medication to manage pain and discomfort following surgery.
  3. Physical therapy: The patient starts physical therapy to help regain strength and mobility in their spine.
  4. Follow-up appointments: The patient has regular follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their progress and ensure proper healing.
  5. Long-term management: The patient may need to continue with physical therapy, wear a brace, or make lifestyle modifications to maintain the results of the surgery and prevent further curvature of the spine.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of scoliosis surgery?
  2. What is the expected outcome and recovery time after surgery?
  3. Will I need physical therapy or other rehabilitation after surgery?
  4. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after surgery?
  5. Will I need to wear a brace after surgery?
  6. What are the long-term effects of scoliosis surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or less invasive options available?
  8. How many scoliosis surgeries have you performed and what is your success rate?
  9. Can you provide me with information about the specific surgical procedure you recommend for my case?
  10. What can I do to prepare for surgery and optimize my recovery?

Reference

Authors: Farley FA, Blakemore LC. Journal: Instr Course Lect. 2017 Feb 15;66:475-480. PMID: 28594523