Our Summary

This research paper discusses how children with severe scoliosis (a condition where the spine twists and curves to the side) often have anemia (a deficiency of red cells or of hemoglobin in the blood) and require surgery, which can lead to significant blood loss. To manage this, the paper suggests a program to conserve blood around the time of surgery.

The paper reviews strategies for conserving blood, involving a team of healthcare professionals like nurses, anesthesiologists, surgeons and dieticians, and covers care before, during and after surgery. These strategies can help reduce the need for blood transfusions from outside sources.

The paper also describes a case where a Jehovah’s Witness patient underwent scoliosis surgery. Because of their religious beliefs, Jehovah’s Witnesses often refuse blood transfusions, making blood conservation strategies particularly important.

In conclusion, the researchers suggest that good communication between healthcare professionals and careful strategies to conserve blood can greatly reduce or even eliminate the need for blood transfusions during surgery for pediatric scoliosis. The paper also points out areas where more research is needed to understand the best ways to conserve blood in these situations.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of implementing blood conservation strategies in pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  2. How does interdisciplinary communication aid in blood conservation during pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  3. What are some potential areas for further clinical studies in perioperative blood conservation interventions for pediatric scoliosis surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about pediatric scoliosis surgery is to discuss the importance of a perioperative blood conservation program with their healthcare team. This program can help minimize the need for transfusions during surgery, which can be especially beneficial for patients with baseline anemia. By working with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers, including nurses, transfusion medicine physicians, anesthesiologists, surgeons, and others, patients can potentially reduce their exposure to exogenous blood products and improve their outcomes following surgery. It is important for patients to communicate any concerns or preferences they may have regarding blood conservation strategies with their healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended pediatric scoliosis surgery are those with severe scoliosis that is causing significant curvature of the spine, pain, difficulty breathing, or other complications. These patients may have tried non-surgical treatments such as bracing or physical therapy without success. Additionally, patients with baseline anemia or other medical conditions that may increase the risk of surgery may benefit from a perioperative blood conservation program to minimize the need for blood transfusions during surgery. This program involves a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals working together to implement strategies to reduce blood loss and the need for transfusions, ultimately improving outcomes for pediatric scoliosis surgery patients.

Timeline

Before pediatric scoliosis surgery, a patient may undergo preoperative evaluations, such as imaging studies and blood tests to assess the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health. The patient may also meet with various healthcare providers, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses, to discuss the surgery and postoperative care.

During pediatric scoliosis surgery, the patient will be under general anesthesia, and the surgeon will perform the spinal fusion procedure to correct the curvature of the spine. This surgery can be associated with significant blood loss, leading to the potential need for blood transfusions.

After pediatric scoliosis surgery, the patient will be closely monitored in the recovery room and then transferred to a hospital room for further observation. Postoperative care may include pain management, physical therapy, and monitoring for any complications. The patient will also undergo follow-up appointments with the surgical team to track their progress and ensure proper healing of the spine.

Overall, interdisciplinary communication and meticulous blood conservation strategies are essential for reducing or eliminating the need for blood transfusions in pediatric scoliosis surgery patients. Further research is needed to evaluate the outcomes of these blood conservation interventions in this patient population.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process and what can be expected in terms of pain management?
  3. What are the success rates of pediatric scoliosis surgery and what are the potential long-term outcomes?
  4. Are there alternative treatment options to surgery that could be considered?
  5. What is the experience and expertise of the surgical team in performing pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  6. Will my child require blood transfusions during or after the surgery, and if so, what measures will be taken to minimize the need for them?
  7. Are there any specific dietary or lifestyle changes that should be made before the surgery to optimize outcomes?
  8. How will the surgery impact my child’s growth and development?
  9. What follow-up care and monitoring will be necessary after the surgery?
  10. Are there any specific restrictions or precautions that my child should adhere to post-surgery?

Reference

Authors: McVey MJ, Lau W, Naraine N, Zaarour C, Zeller R. Journal: Spine Deform. 2021 Sep;9(5):1289-1302. doi: 10.1007/s43390-021-00351-1. Epub 2021 Apr 26. PMID: 33900586