CHAPTER 24
SCOLIOSIS SURGERY
(This is the section that explains the detail of the operation or procedure
above and should be read in conjunction with the chapter Your Back
Operation).
Surgery for scoliosis is indicated when non-operative measures fail. The rea-
son for surgery may be an extremely large curve or deformity or evidence that
the curve is progressing and a large curve is expected in the future. This is
typically the case in teenagers who develop scoliosis during their growth
spurt. If these curves become enlarged, not only do they have cosmetic
effects, but they also have a negative effect on respiratory function (breathing
difficulties). Another reason for intervention would be in the adult age group
where excessive wear and tear has occurred resulting in a degenerative scol-
iosis. This is typically in the lower back (lumbar) area and can cause both
back and leg pain.
The aim with scoliosis surgery is to correct the curve and to hold it in a cor-
rected position while a bony fusion occurs. In other words, the patient trades
a skew spine for a straight, rigid one. It is not possible to correct the curve
without taking away spinal movement and this needs to be considered before
embarking on surgery.
Before surgery, certain investigations are necessary. Dynamic X-rays, where
the patient bends to the lef