Our Summary

This study looked at how effective surgery was in treating a curvature of the spine (scoliosis) in patients with a bone disorder called Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). The researchers looked back at 39 cases between 2002 and 2020, where the patients had this surgery. They checked how the patients were doing before the operation, just after, and years later.

The results showed that the surgery significantly reduced the curve of the spine. Also, any complications that happened were mainly short-term and did not have lasting effects. Only 4 patients needed more surgery or a longer stay in the hospital.

Overall, the study suggests that surgery can be a good option for treating scoliosis in OI patients, despite a relatively high rate of short-term complications.

FAQs

  1. What was the main finding of the study on the effectiveness of surgery in treating scoliosis in patients with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)?
  2. How did the surgery impact the curve of the spine in patients with OI and scoliosis?
  3. What were the common complications of the surgery, and did they have long-term effects on OI patients?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give to a patient considering scoliosis surgery is to discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare team. It is important to understand that while surgery can effectively reduce the curvature of the spine, there may be short-term complications that need to be managed. It is also important to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome. It is important to have realistic expectations and be prepared for the recovery process, which may include physical therapy and ongoing monitoring of the spine.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended scoliosis surgery include:

  1. Patients with a significant curvature of the spine (usually greater than 40-50 degrees) that is causing pain, difficulty breathing, or other functional limitations.
  2. Patients who have not responded well to non-surgical treatments such as bracing, physical therapy, or spinal manipulation.
  3. Patients who are still growing and have a high risk of the curve worsening over time.
  4. Patients with underlying conditions such as Osteogenesis Imperfecta, where the curvature of the spine is particularly severe and may lead to complications if left untreated.
  5. Patients with significant psychological distress or body image issues related to their spinal deformity.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo scoliosis surgery should be made in consultation with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and pain management specialists. The potential risks and benefits of surgery should be carefully weighed, taking into account the individual patient’s unique circumstances and goals.

Timeline

Before surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with scoliosis, a curvature of the spine
  • Patient undergoes various tests and evaluations to determine the severity of the curve and whether surgery is necessary
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and limited mobility due to the curvature of the spine

During surgery:

  • Patient undergoes spinal fusion surgery to correct the curvature of the spine
  • Surgery typically lasts several hours and may involve the use of metal rods, screws, and bone grafts to stabilize and straighten the spine
  • Patient is closely monitored by medical staff during and after the surgery to ensure a successful outcome

After surgery:

  • Patient may experience pain, stiffness, and discomfort in the days and weeks following surgery
  • Patient may need to wear a brace or use assistive devices to support the spine during the recovery process
  • Patient undergoes physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in the spine
  • Patient is monitored closely by medical staff to ensure proper healing and to address any complications that may arise

Years later:

  • Patient experiences improved spinal alignment, reduced pain, and increased mobility compared to before surgery
  • Patient may require periodic follow-up appointments with a spine specialist to monitor the progression of scoliosis and address any new concerns
  • Patient may be able to resume normal activities and enjoy a better quality of life as a result of successful surgery

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with scoliosis surgery for someone with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)?
  2. How long is the recovery process expected to be and what kind of rehabilitation or physical therapy will be needed?
  3. What is the success rate of scoliosis surgery in patients with OI, and what are the expected long-term outcomes?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before pursuing surgery for scoliosis?
  5. How experienced is the surgical team in treating scoliosis in patients with OI, and what is their success rate with similar cases?
  6. Will additional surgeries or treatments be needed in the future to maintain the results of the initial surgery?
  7. How will scoliosis surgery impact daily activities, such as mobility and physical exercise, for someone with OI?
  8. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions that should be taken after scoliosis surgery to minimize the risk of complications or further spinal issues?
  9. How will scoliosis surgery affect bone health and fracture risk in someone with OI?
  10. Are there any support resources or organizations that specialize in scoliosis treatment for individuals with OI that you would recommend?

Reference

Authors: Rabau O, Essa A, Smorgick Y, Anekstein Y, Abhishek K, Saran N, Ouellet J. Journal: Eur Spine J. 2023 Apr;32(4):1146-1152. doi: 10.1007/s00586-023-07550-6. Epub 2023 Feb 6. PMID: 36740607