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Mount Sinai Doctors Manhasset
1155 Northern Boulevard,
3rd Floor, Suite 300
Manhasset, NY 11030

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Adolescent Scoliosis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Near Me in Florida

Adolescent scoliosis is the deformity of the spine among children aged 10-18. Early treatment should be a priority because it can affect lung functions if left unattended. You can choose between surgical and non-surgical procedures to straighten the vertebrae.

Most patients choose spinal fusion surgery over non-surgical treatments for several reasons.

Spinal Fusion Surgery: Is it the Right Treatment for You?

Despite the numerous alternative treatments for adolescent scoliosis available today, such as back brace, chiropractic medicine, and fusionless surgery, patients still choose to undergo surgery. The reason for this is that spinal fusion surgery offers a more permanent solution to the curved spine than all the other procedures.

Know more about spinal fusion surgery and whether it is the right treatment for you:

Why Surgery is the Best Treatment

There are several factors that experts consider before prescribing you the right treatment such as the age, location, and severity of the curve, and the remaining growing years. Most patients undergo surgery if their spine is curved at least a 45-degree angle.

Spinal fusion surgery is the best treatment for a scoliosis patient, because unlike back braces that only prevent further curvature, it significantly straightens the spine.

What to Expect in a Scoliosis Surgery

Before the surgery, the doctor will conduct necessary tests to identify the part of the spine that needs to be fixed. You will also be given antibiotics and pain killers to minimize the risk of infections, as well as relieve the pain while you are waiting for the date of surgery.

After the surgery, you are expected to rest and stay at the hospital for at least three days.

The Cost of Spinal Fusion Surgery

The cost of different spine surgeries depends on the area you live in, but most of the time, these are the factors considered in computing the total bill:

  • Hospital room fees
  • Types of materials used
  • Bone graft material
  • Anesthesia
  • Surgeon’s fee

Some insurance coverages pay for spine surgery, so be sure to talk to your provider about the extent of your plan. You can also talk to your physician to have a better understanding of the fees before proceeding with the surgery.

Possible Complications of Surgery

Like most surgeries, spinal fusion also come with certain risks such as:

  • Infection – Antibiotic intake can help minimize the risk of acquiring infection. The doctor will prescribe you with the right dosage to ingest before, during, and after the procedure.
  • Bleeding – Minimal bleeding is normal in any major surgery. However, there are extremely rare cases when excessive bleeding was reported. In instances like these, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
  • Nerve Damage – Although it is a rare complication, blood vessels and nerves can be damaged during the procedure. You don’t have to worry because a technician will be on standby to monitor the activity and lessen risks.
  • Pseudoarthrosis – Diagnosis of pseudoarthrosis is evident to older teenagers who smoke. If there are not enough bones to work with during a spinal fusion surgery, then you are prone to experience rod breakage. A second surgery will be necessary to complete the fusion of the bones.

Finding the Right Surgeon

While it will provide you with great relief if successful, undergoing major surgery is a big step that you have to discuss well with your physician. Our experienced surgeons from Scoliosis & Spine Associates will explain to you everything you need to know for your spinal fusion surgery. Consult with us today if you are looking for orthopedic surgeons right away.