When the spine rotates and grows sideways, it is referred to as scoliosis. If left untreated, scoliosis can create a deformity, impact mobility and put pressure on the internal organs. Scoliosis correction surgery is an option to straighten sideways curves in the spine and prevent further deformity. Our board certified spine surgeon at McKinley Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, and Spine offer options for scoliosis treatment, including correction surgery at one of our state-of-the-art medical facilities in Alaska.
Per John Hopkins Medicine, there are approximately three million new cases of scoliosis diagnosed each year in the U.S. Most cases do not require treatment, with about 30% of patients needing braces or other types of treatment. Only 10% of patients with scoliosis are recommended for surgery, with many diagnosed in early adolescence, usually between ages 10 and 12.
Surgical correction depends on the severity of the curve and rotation of the spine. In most cases, posterior spinal fusion is recommended. The spine is accessed from the posterior, or back position, adding bone grafts and/or instrumentation to straighten the spine and prevent further progression of the disease.
Recovering from Scoliosis Surgery
Many patients that undergo scoliosis surgery are adolescents or teens, which can be a frightening time for spine surgery for the patients and their families. However, spinal fusions and other options used for mitigating the curve in the spine have much higher benefits than risks, especially when performed by experienced spinal surgeons. Our surgeons at McKinley Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, and Spine are fellowship trained and have extensive experience, giving our patients considering scoliosis correction surgery highly qualified experts in spinal treatment.
If you or your child has scoliosis and you are considering correction surgery, contact our team for an exam and consultation. Together with our spinal specialists, you can explore the options for treating the effects of your scoliosis, including the possibility of correction surgery.