Understanding Scoliosis and Spinal Deformity

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that can develop in childhood or adolescence and sometimes in adults due to degeneration or other conditions When curves are mild observation and bracing may be enough but severe curves can progress cause visible deformity back pain and in some cases breathing or cardiac compromise if the chest cavity is affected Spinal deformity surgery aims to correct the curve stabilise the spine and prevent further progression particularly when angles reach forty five to fifty degrees or more or when symptoms are significant

Principles of Spinal Fusion for Scoliosis

The most common operation for scoliosis is spinal fusion where several vertebrae are realigned and then fused into a single solid bone Rods screws and hooks are attached to the vertebrae to hold the spine in a straighter position while bone graft placed along the back of the spine grows and welds the bones together This stops movement at the fused levels and prevents the curve from worsening while preserving motion above and below the fusion In childhood and adolescent cases the aim is to correct the deformity while allowing as much continued growth as safely possible

Indications and Patient Selection

Surgery is usually reserved for curves that are large typically above forty five or fifty degrees progressing despite bracing or associated with significant pain cosmetic concern or lung function compromise Decisions take into account the age of the patient the type and flexibility of the curve any underlying syndromes and overall health status Pre operative planning uses standing full spine radiographs and sometimes three dimensional imaging to determine levels to be fused and the best approach

Surgical Procedure and Approaches

Most modern scoliosis fusions are performed through a posterior approach with an incision along the mid back muscles gently moved aside and implants fixed to the vertebrae under imaging guidance In selected cases anterior or combined approaches may be used often for specific curve patterns Intraoperative neuromonitoring checks spinal cord function throughout the procedure to reduce the risk of neurological injury Bone graft from the patient or donor or synthetic graft is placed along the spine to allow fusion

Recovery and Outcomes

Hospital stay is typically several days with early sitting and walking encouraged under supervision to reduce complications and build confidence A brace may be used in some cases during early healing though modern constructs often do not require prolonged external support Most patients gradually resume school or desk work within a few weeks and unrestricted activities over several months Once fusion has occurred the corrected segment is solid and usually does not require further surgery although adjacent levels remain susceptible to age related changes Studies show that spinal fusion for significant scoliosis can improve appearance relieve pain and protect lung function in appropriate candidates

Why Choose Livasa Hospitals for Scoliosis and Deformity Surgery

Livasa Hospitals offer spinal deformity assessment and surgery through spine specialists experienced in paediatric and adult scoliosis with access to full spine imaging neuromonitoring intensive care and rehabilitation services This multi speciality support allows children and adults from across Punjab to receive comprehensive care from initial diagnosis through surgery and long term follow up

Livasa Hospitals Punjab Network Contact

Livasa Healthcare Group Network of Multi speciality Hospitals in Punjab
Corporate Office Phase 8 Industrial Area Sector 73 Punjab 160071 India