Our Summary

This research paper talks about pediatric scoliosis, a condition where a child’s spine curves to the side. This condition has been around for a long time and is one of the main reasons why orthopedic surgery exists today. However, only a few specialized surgeons deal with pediatric scoliosis patients. In severe cases, surgery can stop the condition from getting worse and can correct the abnormal curve in the spine.

The aim of this article is to give an update on how pediatric scoliosis is currently managed and to make more doctors and surgeons aware of this condition, so they can recognize and diagnose it earlier. The researchers looked at many scientific articles to summarize the different types of scoliosis, what causes them, and how they appear. They also looked at how scoliosis is classified, how it can progress during different stages of growth, and the risk of the curve getting worse.

In the end, they discussed the current treatment options, their advantages, drawbacks, and potential complications. They paid special attention to idiopathic scoliosis, which is a type of scoliosis with an unknown cause, particularly in teenagers, as it is the most common subtype.

FAQs

  1. What is pediatric scoliosis and how is it currently managed?
  2. What are the different types of scoliosis and what causes them?
  3. What are the current treatment options for pediatric scoliosis and what are their potential complications?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about pediatric scoliosis surgery is to ensure they follow all pre-operative instructions provided by their healthcare team. This may include fasting before surgery, stopping certain medications, and undergoing any necessary pre-operative tests. Following these instructions can help reduce the risk of complications during and after surgery. Additionally, it is important for the patient to communicate openly with their healthcare team about any concerns or questions they may have about the surgery.

Suitable For

The researchers found that pediatric scoliosis surgery is typically recommended for patients who have a severe curvature of the spine that is progressive and likely to worsen over time. Other factors that may indicate the need for surgery include:

  1. Failure of non-surgical treatments: If other treatments such as bracing or physical therapy have not been successful in controlling the progression of the curve, surgery may be recommended.

  2. Respiratory issues: Severe scoliosis can put pressure on the lungs and cause breathing difficulties. Surgery may be recommended to prevent further respiratory complications.

  3. Pain and discomfort: Some patients may experience significant pain and discomfort due to their scoliosis, especially if the curve is affecting their quality of life. Surgery may be recommended to provide relief from these symptoms.

  4. Cosmetic concerns: In some cases, the appearance of the spine may be a concern for the patient, leading to psychological distress. Surgery may be recommended to improve the cosmetic appearance of the spine.

Overall, pediatric scoliosis surgery is typically recommended for patients who have a severe curvature of the spine that is causing significant symptoms or is likely to worsen over time. It is important for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their individual needs.

Timeline

Before pediatric scoliosis surgery:

  • A child may be diagnosed with scoliosis during a routine physical exam or after experiencing symptoms such as back pain or an uneven posture.
  • The child may undergo imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to determine the severity of the spinal curvature.
  • Non-surgical treatment options such as bracing or physical therapy may be recommended to help manage the condition and prevent it from worsening.
  • Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments with a pediatric orthopedic specialist may be scheduled to track the progression of the scoliosis.

After pediatric scoliosis surgery:

  • The child will undergo pre-operative evaluations and tests to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
  • The surgery itself typically involves correcting the spinal curvature through the use of metal rods, screws, and/or bone grafts.
  • The child will be closely monitored in the hospital post-surgery to manage pain, monitor for complications, and begin the recovery process.
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation will be an important part of the recovery process to help the child regain strength, mobility, and function in their spine.
  • Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the child’s progress, assess the effectiveness of the surgery, and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about pediatric scoliosis surgery include:

  1. What are the different treatment options available for pediatric scoliosis, and why is surgery recommended in my case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process after pediatric scoliosis surgery, and what kind of post-operative care will be required?
  4. Will my child need to wear a brace before or after surgery, and for how long?
  5. How will the surgery affect my child’s growth and development in the long term?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that can be considered before opting for surgery?
  7. How experienced is the surgical team in performing pediatric scoliosis surgeries, and what is their success rate?
  8. What kind of follow-up care will be needed after surgery, and how often will my child need to be monitored?
  9. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or restrictions that my child will need to follow post-surgery?
  10. What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of correcting the spine curvature and improving my child’s quality of life?

Reference

Authors: Rüwald JM, Eymael RL, Upenieks J, Zhang L, Jacobs C, Pflugmacher R, Schildberg FA. Journal: Z Orthop Unfall. 2020 Oct;158(5):508-516. doi: 10.1055/a-0965-7760. Epub 2019 Aug 15. PMID: 31416110