TREATMENTS
ADULT SPINAL DEFORMITY CORRECTIVE SURGERY
A spinal deformity occurs when the spine curves abnormally, resembling a C-shape rather than a soft “S” or straight line.
Adult Spinal Deformity Corrective Surgery
Types of spinal abnormalities include:
- Kyphosis occurs when an exaggerated curve forms in the centre of the spine. Kyphosis originates from the Greek word ‘kyphos’, meaning hump. Medically, this condition is referred to as round back.
- Scoliosis causes a curved spine that is especially noticeable from the side. This curve appears in the centre of the back or the thoracic region.
- Spondylolisthesis is when the spinal bones collapse into the vertebrae below, increasing pressure on the nerve roots and discs.
When is spinal deformity corrective surgery required?
A spinal curvature that exceeds forty degrees needs to be corrected surgically. Spinal fusion surgery is a highly effective surgical procedure that successfully corrects the curve in the back from developing even further.
When pain medication and physical therapy for posture and gait training prove to be ineffective, Dr Makan turns to corrective spinal fusion to improve the appearance of the back.
Procedure
Surgery largely depends on the spine's flexibility and strength, along with the degree of curvature. Surgery aims to correct the deformity when kyphosis results in a spinal curvature over seventy degrees and scoliosis causes a curvature higher than forty degrees.
Screws, plates, rods and cages are types of hardware used to fixate and stabilise the spine. This newly created position will help adjust the vertebrae accordingly.
Recovery
Recovery from spinal deformity corrective surgery is a long process. In most cases, bracing and physical therapy is recommended to stabilise the spine further. Usually, the return to daily activities can only occur after three to six months after corrective surgery. Therefore, when scoliosis surgery is complete, Dr Makan advises all his patients to avoid lifting anything heavy, bending or rotating the hips.
FAQ
No, but the symptoms can be managed. Severe scoliosis can be treated non-invasively through physical therapy and bracing. Surgery is often requested in severe cases when spinal curvature is extreme.
If a structural issue is the cause of kyphosis, Dr Makan may recommend bracing to correct the defect. A brace slows the curve’s progression and treats pain. However, Dr Makan will, in severe instances of spinal deformity, perform corrective surgery.
Treating symptoms of spondylolisthesis include prescribing pain medication or steroidal epidural injections.
In most circumstances, spinal fusion is performed. This surgery involves joining the vertebrae to stabilise the spine. Then, Dr Makan uses instruments such as screws, rods and cages to fix the components together.