Our Summary

This research paper describes a study that will compare two types of surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), a condition where the spine of a child curves sideways. The two surgical methods are posterior spine fusion and minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS). For the MISS technique, the surgeons will make two small incisions in the midline of the patient’s back and install screws into the spine to help correct its shape. The patients will be randomly assigned to one of the two groups and the surgeons will not know which patient is in which group. The researchers will follow up with the patients for five years, taking measurements of the angle of their spine’s curvature, among other things. They will also record the length of the surgery, the patient’s hemoglobin levels before and after surgery, how long they stayed in the hospital, and how long it took them to stand upright and to have their surgical drainage removed. The study will also assess the patient’s pain levels after surgery and during their recovery period. The patients will fill out questionnaires to help assess their condition. The study has been approved by an ethics committee and all participants will provide informed consent. The results will be shared through academic publications and conferences.

FAQs

  1. What are the two types of surgery being compared in this study for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis?
  2. How will the success of the surgeries be measured in this study?
  3. How will the privacy and consent of the participants in the study be ensured?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scoliosis surgery is to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including restrictions on physical activity, proper wound care, and attending follow-up appointments. It is important to take pain medication as prescribed and to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider. It is also important to participate in physical therapy as recommended to help with recovery and to maintain the best possible outcome after surgery.

Suitable For

Typically, scoliosis surgery is recommended for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) who have a curvature of the spine greater than 40-50 degrees and have not responded well to conservative treatments such as bracing or physical therapy. The decision to undergo surgery is often based on factors such as the severity of the curvature, the patient’s age and skeletal maturity, any associated symptoms such as pain or difficulty breathing, and the potential for further progression of the curvature. In general, surgery is considered when the benefits of reducing the curvature and improving the patient’s quality of life outweigh the risks and potential complications of the procedure.

Timeline

Before scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with scoliosis, a condition where the spine curves sideways
  • Patient undergoes various tests and evaluations to determine the severity of the curve and the best treatment options
  • Patient discusses treatment options with their healthcare provider, including the possibility of surgery
  • Patient prepares for surgery by undergoing preoperative tests and evaluations
  • Patient undergoes surgery, which can take several hours depending on the complexity of the curve
  • Patient stays in the hospital for a few days to recover and receive postoperative care
  • Patient may experience pain and discomfort during the initial recovery period

After scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient begins the recovery process, which includes physical therapy and rehabilitation to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities, following the guidance of their healthcare provider
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan
  • Patient experiences improvements in their spine’s alignment and overall function
  • Patient may still experience some discomfort or limitations in movement, but these typically improve over time
  • Patient continues to follow up with their healthcare provider to ensure the long-term success of the surgery and monitor for any potential complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with scoliosis surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after scoliosis surgery and what can I expect during this time?
  3. Will I need physical therapy or other forms of rehabilitation after the surgery?
  4. How will scoliosis surgery impact my daily activities and lifestyle?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?
  6. How successful is scoliosis surgery in correcting the curvature of the spine in the long term?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options for scoliosis that I should consider before opting for surgery?
  8. How experienced is the surgical team in performing scoliosis surgeries, particularly the specific type of surgery being recommended?
  9. What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of pain relief and improvement in mobility?
  10. What are the long-term implications of scoliosis surgery, including the need for future surgeries or ongoing medical care?

Reference

Authors: Maccaferri B, Filardo G, Cini C, Gasbarrini A, Vommaro F. Journal: BMJ Open. 2024 Jul 16;14(7):e075802. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075802. PMID: 39013643