Our Summary

This study analyzed how a surgeon’s experience performing scoliosis surgery impacts the length of the surgery and the outcomes for patients. They followed one surgeon who hadn’t previously specialized in scoliosis surgery and timed how long each part of the procedures took for 47 patients. They found that the length of the surgeries decreased until the surgeon had operated on about 23 to 25 patients, after which the time stayed about the same. The number of patients the surgeon had operated on had a bigger impact on surgery length than the complexity of the individual surgeries. They also found that patients lost less blood and stayed in the hospital for a shorter time after the surgeon’s operating time had stabilized. However, the surgeon’s experience didn’t have a big impact on how well patients did after surgery or on the rate of complications. This information could be useful for new surgeons learning to do scoliosis surgery or for those responsible for training them.

FAQs

  1. Does a surgeon’s experience impact the length of a scoliosis surgery?
  2. Does a surgeon’s experience affect patient outcomes after a scoliosis surgery?
  3. How does the number of scoliosis surgeries performed by a surgeon impact the complexity of the surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scoliosis surgery is that the surgeon’s experience and expertise in performing the procedure can have a significant impact on the length of the surgery, amount of blood loss, hospital stay duration, and overall outcomes for the patient. It is important to choose a surgeon who has experience and specializes in scoliosis surgery to ensure the best possible results.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for scoliosis surgery are those with severe curves that are progressing rapidly, causing pain or affecting their ability to function. This includes patients with curves greater than 45-50 degrees, as well as those with curves that are causing significant deformity or respiratory issues. Patients who have not responded well to conservative treatments such as bracing or physical therapy may also be recommended for surgery. Additionally, patients with congenital or neuromuscular scoliosis may also be candidates for surgery.

Timeline

Before scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with scoliosis and undergoes various imaging tests to determine the severity of the curvature
  • Patient may undergo physical therapy or wear a brace to try to correct the curvature
  • Surgeon evaluates the patient’s condition and determines if surgery is necessary
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation for the surgery, including meeting with the anesthesiologist and other members of the surgical team

After scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient is monitored closely in the recovery room immediately after surgery
  • Patient may stay in the hospital for several days for observation and pain management
  • Patient begins physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and flexibility
  • Patient follows up with the surgeon for post-operative appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may need ongoing follow-up care to monitor the spine’s alignment and ensure the surgery was successful.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with scoliosis surgery?
  2. How experienced are you in performing scoliosis surgery? How many surgeries have you performed?
  3. What is the success rate of scoliosis surgery in terms of correcting the curvature of the spine?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after scoliosis surgery?
  5. Will I need any additional treatments or therapies after the surgery?
  6. What type of scoliosis surgery do you recommend for my specific case?
  7. What are the expected outcomes and long-term effects of scoliosis surgery?
  8. Are there any alternative treatments to surgery that I could consider?
  9. What will the post-operative care plan look like, including follow-up appointments and physical therapy?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions I should be aware of after scoliosis surgery?

Reference

Authors: Ryu KJ, Suh SW, Kim HW, Lee DH, Yoon Y, Hwang JH. Journal: Bone Joint J. 2016 May;98-B(5):679-85. doi: 10.1302/0301-620X.98B5.36356. PMID: 27143741