Types of Scoliosis Surgery

There are different types of scoliosis surgery and other options for treating this condition. Knowing about the different options available can be valuable information for those dealing with scoliosis (or their loved ones), but it is important to realise that not all these options will be appropriate in every case. Each individual is unique, and there will be good reasons why one treatment option is recommended over another by the surgical team. In this article we will examine briefly the different types of scoliosis surgery, but of course more qualified information will be provided by the experts involved in the particular case.

What are the Different Types of Scoliosis Surgery?

The reason why there are different types of scoliosis treatment is that different patients will have different requirements. Here are just some of the most common types of scoliosis surgery options.

• The most common of the different types of scoliosis surgery is performed from an incision in the back of the patient – this is called posterior scoliosis surgery. Once the incision is made the surgeon can then install metal rods to straighten the spine; these will be attached using wire. There may also be fusion of the spine using bone from the hip.
• Sometimes it is more appropriate to create an incision from the front of the body for easier access to the spine – this is called anterior scoliosis surgery. With this type of surgery it is necessary to deflate the lung in order to be able to do the work that is required for the procedure.
• If the person having the operation is young then the surgical team may decide to insert special growing rods. These can later be adjusted as the individual's spine develops as part of normal growth.

The different types of scoliosis surgery will tend to have similar recovery paths – it can take up to seven months before the patient can return to full movement. The first three weeks might involve constant bed rest. After discharge home the patient will need to avoid high impact activities such as jumping or running, and they will also need to avoid lifting anything heavy. As the end of the six month periods ends the patient will be able to gradually introduce new activities.

The Possible Complication of the Different Types of Scoliosis Surgery

Like all surgical procedures there are possible risks associated with the different types of scoliosis surgery. It is believed that complications will arise in less than 5% of people and when people do develop problems they are usually managed after an initial setback. Here are just some of the possible complications from this type of surgery.

• The fact that there is an incision allows for the possibility of the introduction of an infection.
• There can be excessive bleeding in a minority of cases.
• There is the risk of respiratory problems.
• There could be damage caused to other organs, nerves, or tissue during the procedure.
• Complications due to bed rest could arise.