Our Summary

This research paper studies the trends and factors related to complications after a child has surgery for scoliosis, a condition that causes a curve in the spine. The researchers looked at data from over 9,000 patients under 21 who had this surgery between 2006 and 2016.

The study found that 17% of the patients had some type of complication after surgery. 12% of these complications were related to the heart and lungs, 42% of the patients needed a blood transfusion, and 62% had to be admitted to the intensive care unit. The average hospital stay was five days and the average cost was $56,375.

However, the researchers found that the number of complications, the need for blood transfusions, the length of the hospital stay, and the cost all decreased significantly over the 10-year period they studied.

The study also found that the risk of complications was higher for younger patients and for those with other health problems. The risk was also higher if the surgery was done at a hospital that didn’t do many of these surgeries or if the hospital was a teaching hospital.

The researchers concluded that while the rate of complications has gone down over time, it is still relatively high at 17%. They believe their findings could help identify ways to reduce the risk of complications and improve outcomes for patients.

FAQs

  1. What percentage of children experienced complications after scoliosis surgery according to the study?
  2. What factors were found to increase the risk of complications after pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  3. How has the rate of complications from pediatric scoliosis surgery changed over the 10-year study period?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about pediatric scoliosis surgery is to make sure to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the surgical team, such as fasting before surgery and stopping certain medications. It is also important to discuss any concerns or questions with the healthcare team and to have a support system in place for the recovery period after surgery. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help with the healing process.

Suitable For

Overall, pediatric scoliosis surgery is typically recommended for patients who have a severe spinal curve that is causing pain, difficulty breathing, or other health issues. Surgery may also be recommended for patients who have a rapidly progressing curve that is likely to worsen over time. Additionally, patients who have not responded to other treatments such as bracing or physical therapy may be candidates for surgery.

It is important to note that surgery is not always the first treatment option for pediatric scoliosis, and the decision to proceed with surgery is made on a case-by-case basis after careful consideration of the patient’s individual circumstances. The risks and benefits of surgery must be weighed carefully, and the decision should be made in consultation with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers, including orthopedic surgeons, pediatricians, and physical therapists.

Ultimately, the goal of pediatric scoliosis surgery is to correct the spinal curve, improve the patient’s quality of life, and prevent further progression of the curve. By carefully selecting appropriate candidates for surgery and closely monitoring patients both during and after the procedure, healthcare providers can help minimize the risk of complications and improve outcomes for pediatric scoliosis patients.

Timeline

Before pediatric scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with scoliosis, a condition causing a curve in the spine
  • Patient undergoes non-surgical treatments such as bracing, physical therapy, or monitoring the curve
  • If the curve progresses or causes pain or other complications, surgery may be recommended

After pediatric scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient is admitted to the hospital for the surgery
  • Surgery typically lasts several hours and may involve inserting rods and screws to straighten the spine
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and limited mobility following surgery
  • Patient may require a blood transfusion due to blood loss during surgery
  • Patient is monitored in the intensive care unit post-surgery
  • Patient may need physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility
  • Patient is typically discharged from the hospital after a few days
  • Patient may require follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor the spine and assess recovery
  • Over time, the patient may experience improved posture, reduced pain, and better quality of life as a result of the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with pediatric scoliosis surgery?

  2. How experienced is the surgical team in performing pediatric scoliosis surgeries?

  3. What is the success rate of pediatric scoliosis surgery in terms of correcting the spinal curvature?

  4. What is the expected recovery process after pediatric scoliosis surgery?

  5. Are there any long-term effects or complications that can arise from pediatric scoliosis surgery?

  6. What type of post-operative care and follow-up will be required after surgery?

  7. How will pain management be handled after pediatric scoliosis surgery?

  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before opting for surgery?

  9. How will the surgery impact the child’s growth and development?

  10. What is the hospital’s protocol for preventing and managing complications after pediatric scoliosis surgery?

Reference

Authors: DelPizzo K, Wilson LA, Fiasconaro M, Liu J, Bekeris J, Poeran J, Memtsoudis SG. Journal: Anesth Analg. 2020 Dec;131(6):1890-1900. doi: 10.1213/ANE.0000000000005087. PMID: 32739957