Scoliosis is a medical condition in which the spine is sideways bent in an 'S' or 'C' shape. Scoliosis is of different types, including idiopathic scoliosis having no discrete cause. Such deformities are present at birth, are known as congenital scoliosis, and cause spinal deformities. Degenerative scoliosis, which typically occurs as one's body ages and neuromuscular scoliosis are associated with disorders such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.
With scoliosis, uneven posture occurs; one shoulder, for instance, or one hip might be a bit higher. Daily activities can turn tricky as movement decreases over time. You probably didn't want a curved spine to mess with your routine like this. Don't think scoliosis issues stop at the physical issues that can hinder daily life and cause low self-esteem.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Scoliosis
The severity of the curvature can surprise you with many symptoms that can fall into the category of scoliosis. One shoulder blade is placed out further than the other, giving the impression of uneven shoulders or hips. You may notice a noticeable curve when viewed from behind, shaping as an "S" or "C." Rib asymmetry shows up as a "rib hump," especially when you bend forward. Often chronic back pain is the main problem with stiffness and reduced mobility. The fatigue happens as your body digs in fighting against the spinal misalignment, which is worse.
Diagnosing Scoliosis
Diagnosing scoliosis involves a detailed process that includes physical exams and imaging tests. First, a healthcare provider will assess your posture. They often use the Adams Forward Bend Test to find uneven shoulders or hips. Your medical history gets checked too; yes, they do want to know about your family's spine. If scoliosis seems possible, imaging tests like X-rays will measure your spine's curvature. The Cobb angle provides a way to gauge the curvature's severity if you feel intrigued.
Your doctor might recommend advanced imaging like MRI or CT scans for a deeper inspection. These tests help evaluate neurological issues or complicated anatomy. Children and adolescents will have regular follow-ups to monitor progression and decide on treatment.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Without surgery, you can manage scoliosis by bracing and physical therapy. Doctors believe if you have a moderate curve, the goal is to stop it from getting worse, and during that time frame, you might want to put your kid in braces. While you grow, a custom-fitting brace aligns the spine. Even physical therapy comes though, because it reinforces muscles around the spine. It will also help you improve your posture and help reduce the pain. They are well for mild to moderate cases. If you start early enough, you can avoid or even delay surgery.
Surgical Intervention for Scoliosis
When scoliosis affects your quality of life, you need surgery. It can happen if you continue to wear a brace and the curvature gets worse or if your symptoms will not go away even after other treatments. Surgery becomes an option for curvatures usually over 45–50 degrees, which is not something to overlook. Your age and your general health are the key factors in your decision.
Younger patients require special attention since their spines are still growing. Monitoring their condition is crucial to finding the right time for surgery. Your choice hinges on a mix of personal factors and medical advice.
Types of Scoliosis Surgery
- Spinal Fusion
One of the more traditional and common surgeries for scoliosis is spinal fusion. The procedure involves fusing two or more vertebrae so they heal into a single, solid bone, which prevents any further curvature. To do it, bone grafts, rods, screws, and plates are used to hold the spine in the correct position while the spine heals. These bone grafts can be the patient's bone (autograft) or a donor bone (allograft).
The surgeon first realigns the spine as much as possible. Then, small incisions are made to place the rods and screws. The bone graft is placed along the spine to stimulate new bone growth, facilitating the fusion of vertebrae over several months. This procedure can significantly reduce the curvature and improve posture and pain. However, it restricts movement in the fused part of the spine, which might impact flexibility. Recovery can take several months, with physical therapy essential to regain strength and mobility.
- Growing Systems
Children may benefit from growing systems because their spines are still developing. The type of these systems usually involves expandable rods attached to the spine to correct curvature while growth remains possible. The system of rods is periodically lengthened by minor outpatient procedures or in more advanced systems through using magnetic technology that has the non-invasive capability of adjusting the length.
The first surgery is when the rods are placed along the spine, fixed at the top and bottom ends of the curved area. The rods are lengthened as the child grows, so they follow along the spine's growth, and the scoliosis is gradually corrected. The idea is to hold the curve under control until the child’s spine is finished growing, when it may be possible to perform a final fusion surgery. This method helps maintain as much spinal mobility as possible and reduces the need for multiple vital surgeries.
- Decompression Surgery
Decompression surgery addresses scoliosis cases where the spinal curvature causes nerve compression, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness. It means reducing pressure on the spinal cord or nerves with a procedure in which part of the vertebrae or disc tissue is removed. Laminectomy and foraminotomy are techniques used for this surgery. Laminectomy is an operation in which a part of the vertebra called the lamina is removed. Foraminotomy creates more space in which the nerves inside the spinal canal can exit. Both approaches hope to get in the way of those nerves.
This surgery can be combined with spinal fusion to provide both decompression and stabilization. The goal is to alleviate symptoms caused by nerve compression and correct the spinal alignment. Recovery involves a hospital stay followed by several weeks of limited activity and physical therapy. The benefits include reduced pain and improved nerve function, but the risks include potential complications such as infection or further spinal instability.
- Endoscopic Surgery
Endoscopic surgery for scoliosis is a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions and specialized instruments to correct the spinal curvature. A tiny camera, called an endoscope, is inserted through the incision to provide a clear view of the spine. The surgeon then uses small tools to adjust the vertebrae and fix them in place with rods and screws.
The benefits of endoscopic surgery include smaller incisions, lower blood loss, reduced pain, and a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery. This method is useful for correcting certain types of scoliosis without extensive fusion, preserving more of the spine's natural movement. Patients typically experience shorter hospital stays and faster returns to normal activities.
- Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT)
VBT is a relatively new scoliosis surgery technique. Here, screws are fit into the vertebrae on the side convex to the curvature, with connections between the screws and the tether. Over time, the tension on the tether helps straighten the spine, allowing continued spinal flexibility.
In particular, VBT is especially good for growing children and adolescents because the natural process of growth can be used to correct the curvature. Unlike spinal fusion, which permanently fuses vertebrae, VBT aims to maintain as much natural movement as possible. For this surgery, the tether is placed with an endoscope via small incisions, a procedure known as thoracoscopic.
Recovery from VBT is typically faster than from spinal fusion, with most patients returning to regular activities within a few months.
The Surgical Procedure and Recovery
Before surgery, a thorough evaluation is necessary. The process is imaging tests and physical assessments for careful planning. Surgeons need every detail. During the procedure, you are under the care of an anaesthetist who gives you general anaesthesia so you remain comfortable. Surgeons make incisions to get to the spine.
They then insert metal hardware to stabilize your spine. They also use bone grafts if it's a spinal fusion. The usual time of surgery is between 4 and 8 hours, based on complexity. From there, post-operative care is about controlling pain and starting physical therapy. Follow-up appointments ensure you stay on track.
It takes about 3 to 6 months to recover. Rehabilitation needs the help of physical therapy, and it helps you regain strength and flexibility. A real difference is following medical advice and rebuilding strength through physical activity.
Benefits and Risks of Scoliosis Surgery
Scoliosis surgery offers benefits that might catch your interest. It corrects spinal deformity and enhances posture while also improving appearance. Many patients enjoy increased mobility and a better quality of life post-surgery. Every major operation brings risks that you should consider. Infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and hardware failure can occur. Thankfully, skilled surgeons and advanced techniques work to reduce these risks. After surgery, focus on post-surgical care to spot and manage any complications early.
Long-Term Effects of Untreated Scoliosis
If you do not treat scoliosis, complications will worsen over time. There may be observable changes, such as uneven shoulders or hips, due to an increase in curvature of the spine. If the body can't find a way to deal with the misalignment, then the result is chronic pain. This never-ending pain is becoming regular with muscle strain.
In the worst cases, breathing may become difficult if lung function declines because of a limitation of chest wall expansion. Then the heart puts pressure on the spine's curve. To make things worse, numbness and tingling in your legs may be caused by nerve compression.
Accelerated wear on spinal discs can create degenerative conditions. You might have reduced mobility and stiffness and have problems with your daily activities. Emotional struggles, like low self-esteem and anxiety, can creep in as you deal with physical challenges. To avoid all this chaos, early diagnosis and treatment become essential.
Medical Tourism for Scoliosis Surgery with Racure Healthcare
India stands out as a top choice for international patients needing scoliosis surgery. Well-known surgeons and advanced medical facilities are the major reasons for the attraction. Let's not forget costs here are significantly lower than in other countries. Racure Healthcare is your ally in this journey, helping foreign patients every step of the way. Their goal is to create a seamless experience.
It helps you connect with the best hospitals and great surgeons for your surgery. In these connections, factors like certifications, surgeon expertise, and patient reviews play a big role. With Racure’s travel and logistical support, you can focus on healing rather than stressing about the travel details.
Racure provides visa facilitation, online visa application help, and flight booking assistance services. Once you've landed, enjoy free shuttle services or accommodation suggestions designed for your needs. Additionally, they also offer on-arrival SIM cards and local transport for personal errands. Your discussions become easily interpreted through interpretation services.
Partnering with Racure gives you access to affordable, world-class scoliosis surgery at places like Fortis Hospital or Max Super Speciality Hospital. With top-tier logistical help, your journey turns from tedious to convenient, ensuring you get the care you need without the hassle.
Affordable Scoliosis Surgery in India with Racure Healthcare
Scoliosis surgery costs vary widely around the globe. India is a country that is a top choice as it is very affordable for care. Surgery costs between $10,000 and $20,000 in India. On the face of it, the same procedure in the United States would cost anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000. For countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia, the price ranges between $40,000 and $80,000.
Racure Healthcare comes in to help international patients who prefer to undergo these surgeries in India. Racure ensures you're connected with the best hospitals and top surgeons to ensure that you receive quality care without paying the high fees associated with private health care.
International patients who travel to India for treatment are saved by optimizing treatment costs and having a smooth stay in India while undergoing treatment with the help of Racure Healthcare. They take care of all the behind-the-scenes work, so you can breathe a little easier yourself.
Frequently Ask Any Question
Have you any kind of question, please feel free ask us.
Bracing and physical therapy can be used to manage mild to moderate scoliosis. However, serious cases may need surgery to correct the problem.
It usually takes 3 to 6 months for recovery. Physical therapy is important in this time period. It helps you regain strength and mobility.
Scoliosis surgery is a big procedure with its share of risks. You can ask yourself if it's worth the trouble. The reality is that the most recent surgical technology makes this surgery safer.
Patients receive a personalized treatment guide with Racure Healthcare, connecting with in-house medical experts to give tailored medical recommendations. Apart from this, they also help in the selection of the best hospitals like Fortis Hospital, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Manipal Hospitals-Dwarka and other major clinics that are suited to the patient's wishes.
Racure Healthcare does provide extensive post-treatment care for patients so they can recover. Not only do they offer follow-up support, but it is also their job to coordinate any necessary assistance to help make a patient's return to wellness as seamless as possible.