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Spinal fusion for scoliosis
In spinal fusion for scoliosis, rods, hooks, wires, or screws are attached to the curved part of the backbone and the spine is straightened. Small pieces of bone are then put over the spine. The bone pieces will grow together with the spinal bone, fusing it into the proper position. Spinal fusion is major surgery that usually takes several hours to complete.
Although the basic procedure is the same, a variety of specialized techniques can be used to do spinal fusion. Many different types of spinal instrumentation are used to treat scoliosis. In addition, techniques vary, from what type of hooks or rods are used to whether the surgery is done from the front of the body or from the back. The method chosen will depend on a number of factors, including the child's age, spinal maturity, the location and severity of the curve, the expertise of the surgeon, and the preference of the child and parents.
The surgical technique most often used to straighten and stabilize the spine is to do surgery from the back, called the posterior approach.
Another option is to perform the surgery from the front of the body, called the anterior approach.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: August 27, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas S. Renshaw, MD - Orthopedic Surgery | |
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