Our Summary
This research paper is discussing a survey that was done with 20 leading experts in the field of early-onset scoliosis (EOS), a condition where a child’s spine starts to curve before they are ten years old. Despite advances in the treatment of EOS, there’s no agreement on the best surgical methods.
The authors of the paper made a survey with six case studies, which represented the main types of treatment for EOS. They asked the experts about their preferred treatment methods, with a focus on the type of surgery they would choose.
Even though all the experts responded to the survey, there was no agreement on the best treatment for any of the cases. The case that had the most disagreement was one involving a birth defect, while the one with the closest to agreement was one about a specific type of muscle weakness disease.
In every case, at least three different treatment methods were chosen, and in five of the cases, more than four different methods were chosen. It seems that there’s a preference for using screws for the initial part of the surgery.
The authors concluded that the lack of agreement on the best surgical treatment for these cases shows that there needs to be more effort put into developing guidelines for EOS treatment, based on data from multiple treatment centers.
FAQs
- What is early-onset scoliosis (EOS)?
- What were the findings of the survey conducted by the authors of the research paper on EOS surgical methods?
- According to the research, why is there a need for more effort in developing guidelines for EOS treatment?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about scoliosis surgery is to thoroughly discuss and understand the different treatment options available, including the potential risks and benefits of each option. It is important to seek a second opinion and consult with multiple specialists to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient. Additionally, following post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments is crucial for a successful recovery.
Suitable For
Overall, patients who are typically recommended scoliosis surgery are those with severe curvature of the spine that is causing pain, difficulty breathing, or other issues that impact their quality of life. In the case of early-onset scoliosis, patients who have not responded well to non-surgical treatments or who have a progressive curve that is likely to worsen over time may be recommended for surgery. Additionally, patients with underlying conditions such as muscle weakness diseases or birth defects that are contributing to the scoliosis may also be candidates for surgery. Ultimately, the decision to recommend surgery for scoliosis will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of the curve, the patient’s age and overall health, and the potential risks and benefits of surgery.
Timeline
Before scoliosis surgery, a patient typically undergoes a series of diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, MRI scans, and physical examinations to determine the severity and location of the spinal curvature. They may also undergo non-surgical treatments, such as bracing or physical therapy, to try to manage their condition.
After the decision is made to proceed with surgery, the patient will undergo pre-operative evaluations to assess their overall health and fitness for surgery. They may also meet with the surgical team to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes.
During scoliosis surgery, the patient will be under general anesthesia, and the surgeon will use various techniques, such as spinal fusion, to correct the curvature of the spine. The surgery can last several hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
After surgery, the patient will typically be monitored in the hospital for a few days to ensure proper healing and manage pain. Physical therapy and rehabilitation may be recommended to help the patient regain strength and mobility in the spine.
In the months following surgery, the patient will have follow-up appointments with their surgical team to monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan. It may take several months to a year for the patient to fully recover and see the full benefits of the surgery.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about scoliosis surgery include:
- What are the different surgical treatment options available for my specific type of scoliosis?
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with scoliosis surgery?
- What is the success rate of the different surgical treatment methods for scoliosis?
- How long is the recovery period after scoliosis surgery and what can I expect during this time?
- Will I need any additional treatments or therapies after surgery to help with my scoliosis?
- How will scoliosis surgery affect my daily activities, such as sports or physical exercise?
- Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or attend physical therapy sessions?
- Are there any long-term effects or complications that I should be aware of after scoliosis surgery?
- How many scoliosis surgeries have you performed and what is your experience in treating scoliosis patients?
- Can you provide me with any resources or additional information about scoliosis surgery that may help me make an informed decision?
Reference
Authors: Hughes MS, Swarup I, Makarewich CA, Williams BA, Talwar D, Cahill PJ, Flynn JM, Anari JB. Journal: J Pediatr Orthop. 2020 Aug;40(7):e621-e628. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000001473. PMID: 31770167