Our Summary

This research paper discusses the rise and benefits of enhanced recovery protocols (ERPs) in pediatric scoliosis surgery. ERPs are procedures designed to improve the safety and efficiency of health care delivery. They have been shown to reduce the duration of hospital stays and lower costs without increasing the risk of readmission or complications. ERPs typically involve pre-surgery patient counseling, pain management during the procedure, and encouraging patients to move around as soon as possible after the operation. The authors of the paper aim to provide a detailed explanation of the history and important elements of ERPs in the context of pediatric spine deformity surgery.

FAQs

  1. What are the key components of enhanced recovery protocols (ERPs) in pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  2. What are the reported benefits of using ERPs in pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  3. What does the review aim to describe regarding ERPs in pediatric spine deformity surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about pediatric scoliosis surgery is to follow the enhanced recovery protocol (ERP) guidelines to optimize recovery and reduce the length of hospital stay. This may include preoperative counseling, effective pain management, and early mobilization after surgery. By following these guidelines, patients can potentially experience faster recovery and better outcomes.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for pediatric scoliosis surgery are those with severe curvature of the spine that is causing pain, difficulty breathing, or other complications. These patients may have tried other non-surgical treatments such as bracing or physical therapy without success. Additionally, patients who have a rapidly progressing curvature or who are at risk for continued progression may also be recommended for surgery. It is important for patients and their families to discuss the potential risks and benefits of surgery with their healthcare provider to determine if surgery is the best course of action for their individual situation.

Timeline

Before pediatric scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with scoliosis and referred to a pediatric orthopedic surgeon
  • Patient undergoes preoperative evaluations, including imaging studies and possibly physical therapy
  • Patient and family receive counseling on the surgery, expected outcomes, and postoperative care

After pediatric scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to correct the spinal curvature
  • Patient is closely monitored in the recovery unit for any complications
  • Patient is gradually mobilized and encouraged to start physical therapy
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital within a few days to a week, depending on the surgical technique and recovery progress
  • Patient continues to follow up with the orthopedic surgeon for postoperative care and monitoring of the spinal alignment

Overall, the patient should experience improved spinal alignment and function following pediatric scoliosis surgery, with the goal of preventing further progression of the curvature and improving quality of life. Enhanced recovery protocols aim to optimize the patient’s recovery process and improve outcomes following surgery.

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 expected to be following surgery?

  3. What pain management options will be available during and after the surgery?

  4. Will physical therapy be necessary after the surgery, and if so, what will it entail?

  5. What is the success rate of pediatric scoliosis surgery in terms of correcting the curvature of the spine?

  6. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?

  7. Are there any restrictions or limitations on physical activity following the surgery?

  8. Will there be any long-term effects or implications of the surgery on my child’s health?

  9. What is the expected outcome in terms of improving my child’s quality of life and overall health?

  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to surgery that should be considered?

Reference

Authors: Song BM, Kadhim M, Shanmugam JP, King AG, Heffernan MJ. Journal: Orthopedics. 2020 Sep 1;43(5):e338-e344. doi: 10.3928/01477447-20200721-06. Epub 2020 Aug 6. PMID: 32745223