Back or neck pain can disrupt every part of your life—from how you work and sleep to how you move and interact with others. For many patients, when conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication…
Scoliosis is a spinal condition that is marked by misalignments and curvatures that are not present in a healthy spine. Normally seen as a sideways curvature, this condition can be caused by cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, although most causes of scoliosis are unknown. Scoliosis can often be harmless, but more severe cases may require treatment or surgery to relieve pain and increase the patient’s quality of life.
If you have scoliosis and find yourself to be in frequent pain, minimally invasive scoliosis surgery may be right for you. But what is minimally invasive spinal surgery and how do you know if it’s right for you?
What Are the Benefits of Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Surgery?
In the past, scoliosis surgery involved long stays in the Intensive Care Unit, a large volume of blood loss, and a lengthy recovery period. Today, surgeons are able to perform spinal correction surgery with minimal invasion. This means that if you’re interested in getting scoliosis surgery now, you’ll benefit from:
- Quicker healing
- Fewer complications
- Less risk of infection
- Reduced post-op pain
While the recovery process is unique to each patient, many patients are able to return to their normal activities within just six weeks.
How Is Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Surgery Performed?
Minimally invasive scoliosis surgery is an endoscopic procedure performed through several small incisions. After you are put to sleep, a thin tube is inserted into the body with a small video camera. The images from this camera guide the surgeon while they perform the surgery through the small incisions. Disc material may be removed from between the vertebrae along the curve. Screws are then affixed to the affected vertebrae and a customized rod is attached to the screws.
Any instruments such as hooks, rods, or screws that are implanted in your spine will remain in your body and will not need to be removed in the future. Only in very rare situations such as infection or other complications will these instruments require another operation for removal.
Should You Try Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Surgery?
Although most people who have scoliosis will never need surgery, there are many people out there suffering from their scoliosis symptoms that would greatly benefit from this minimally invasive procedure. If your curvature lies in the thoracic spine, chances are that you’re a good candidate. For lower back curves, a traditional procedure may be preferred. Your doctor will have a better idea of what treatment will best serve you for the type, location, and severity of your scoliosis.
If You Have Scoliosis, Our Expert Spine Surgeons May Be Able to Help
With Orthopedic and Laser Spine Surgery in Florida, you can rest easy knowing that your minimally invasive scoliosis surgery is being performed by highly experienced spine surgeons. By utilizing state-of-the-art tools and technology, our board-certified specialists will ensure that you’re receiving the best care possible. Call us today at (855) 853-6542 or complete our online contact form to find out more about scoliosis treatment options.