TREATMENTS
PAEDIATRIC SCOLIOSIS CORRECTIVE SURGERY
Scoliosis occurs when the spinal bones twist unnaturally, causing an unhealthy distorted appearance of the spine.
Paediatric Scoliosis Corrective Surgery
Instead of a straight line in the midsection of the back, the spine appears in an “S” shape. Scoliosis depends on each child; a slight or significant curve may develop in the lower back or affect the entire spinal region. As a child with scoliosis develops, their condition may worsen. Larger spinal curves require urgent corrective surgery.
Rare forms of scoliosis in children include:
- Congenital scoliosis occurs in babies born with this condition whereby the spinal bones have not developed properly or have not fused sufficiently.
- Neuromuscular scoliosis arises from medical conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy that affect a child’s muscles and nerves. Weakness in the spinal muscles can lead to instability and scoliosis.
When is scoliosis corrective surgery required?
Dr Makan implements corrective surgery while considering the curvature's point, how severe scoliosis is, and the child's age. He will agree upon corrective surgery when the child’s spinal curvature is 45-50 degrees or higher.
Procedure
Not all children qualify for corrective spinal fusion surgery. If, however, the spine is excessively curved, Dr Makan has to perform corrective surgery. He may also combine an anterior and posterior approach to correct a rigid curvature for the most suitable surgical outcome. This approach also reduces the risk of crankshaft phenomena when the curve shifts around the fusion. He approaches a single curve from both ends, at the back and the front, but he will approach it through the back if there is another curve.
Corrective fusion involves using instruments such as rods, screws, and bone material (graft) to attach the vertebrae and improve spinal flexibility. Spinal fusion takes three to six months for the unification of the joint to occur fully.
Recovery
After corrective scoliosis surgery, children need to wear a custom-made brace or preferably a cast to promote healing and realignment and facilitate fusion of the bones. Usually, children have to wait at least six months before engaging in any physically straining exercise.
FAQ
Adam’s forward bend test is a standard screening procedure for scoliosis in children. This test involves your child holding a position while Dr Makan checks for any structural abnormalities present in the rib section. In addition, he may choose to conduct an x-ray imaging test.
Children are allowed to return to school between three to six weeks after corrective scoliosis surgery. They, however, must avoid strenuous activities at school and should not carry a heavy backpack. Dr Makan will advise on when it is most suitable to return to their daily exercise.
A severe spinal curvature requires surgical correction. Likewise, a curve of at least forty degrees necessitates surgery.