Scoliosis Surgery: Restoring Spinal Alignment and Mobility
Scoliosis, a condition characterized by an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, affects thousands of individuals worldwide, including children, adolescents, and adults. While mild cases can often be managed with observation, bracing, or physical therapy, severe or progressive scoliosis may require surgical intervention to restore spinal alignment, relieve pain, and prevent further complications.
At Adam Vital Hospital, our orthopedic and spine specialists offer advanced scoliosis surgery with a focus on precision, safety, and long-term quality of life. Here’s everything you need to know about scoliosis surgery — from indications to recovery.
What Is Scoliosis Surgery?
Scoliosis surgery is a specialized procedure designed to correct spinal deformity and stabilize the spine. The primary goals of surgery include:
Reducing spinal curvature to restore a more natural alignment
Relieving pain caused by nerve compression or abnormal posture
Preventing progression of the curvature over time
Improving physical appearance and posture
Protecting internal organs that may be affected by severe spinal curvatures
The type of surgery performed depends on the patient’s age, the severity of the curve, and overall health.
Who Needs Scoliosis Surgery?
Not every scoliosis case requires surgery. Orthopedic specialists typically recommend surgery in situations such as:
Severe curvature: Usually greater than 40–50 degrees in adolescents or adults
Rapid progression: When the curve is worsening despite bracing or therapy
Pain or functional limitations: Affecting daily activities, movement, or lung and heart function
Cosmetic or posture concerns: Leading to significant asymmetry or imbalance
Early evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon is crucial to determine whether surgical intervention is necessary and to plan the most effective approach.
Types of Scoliosis Surgery
Advancements in spine surgery have made scoliosis correction safer and more effective. Some of the most common surgical procedures include:
1. Spinal Fusion Surgery
The most widely used scoliosis surgery, spinal fusion involves:
Connecting two or more vertebrae using rods, screws, or bone grafts
Stabilizing the spine to prevent further curvature
Providing long-term structural support
2. Growing Rod Surgery (for children)
For young children whose spines are still developing, growing rods allow:
Gradual correction as the child grows
Periodic adjustments to accommodate spinal growth
Avoiding premature fusion that may limit growth
3. Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT)
A less invasive, motion-preserving technique for selected patients, VBT:
Uses a flexible tether to correct curvature while allowing some spinal mobility
Is often suitable for adolescents with moderate scoliosis
4. Osteotomy
In severe or rigid curves, osteotomy involves cutting and realigning vertebrae to achieve proper spinal alignment. This advanced procedure is typically reserved for adult scoliosis or extreme deformities.
What to Expect Before Surgery
Preparation is key to a successful outcome. At Adam Vital Hospital, patients undergo:
Comprehensive evaluation: Physical examination, imaging tests (X-ray, MRI, or CT scan), and assessment of curve severity
Pre-surgical planning: Customizing the approach based on the patient’s spinal anatomy and health
Discussion of risks and benefits: Ensuring patients and families understand the procedure and recovery process
Physiotherapy guidance: Strengthening the back and core before surgery to support recovery
Recovery After Scoliosis Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery and patient age, but typical stages include:
Hospital Stay: Usually 5–10 days for monitoring, pain management, and initial mobility training
Early Rehabilitation: Gentle exercises guided by physiotherapists to regain movement and strength
Home Care: Adhering to activity restrictions, wound care, and posture guidance
Long-Term Rehabilitation: Focused physiotherapy to restore flexibility, core strength, and proper posture
Most patients can resume normal daily activities within a few months, while full recovery and return to sports or physically demanding work may take 6–12 months.
Benefits of Scoliosis Surgery
When performed by skilled orthopedic surgeons, scoliosis surgery offers multiple benefits:
Significant curve correction and improved posture
Reduced pain and prevention of nerve compression
Enhanced quality of life and confidence in daily activities
Prevention of further spinal complications, such as lung or heart issues in severe cases
At Adam Vital Hospital, we prioritize not only correcting the curve but also optimizing functional outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Why Choose Adam Vital Hospital for Scoliosis Surgery
Dubai residents trust Adam Vital Hospital for spinal care because we combine:
Internationally trained orthopedic and spine surgeons with expertise in complex scoliosis cases
Advanced surgical technology for precision and minimally invasive procedures
Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, including physiotherapy and rehabilitation
Patient-centered approach, ensuring comfort, safety, and long-term success
Our multidisciplinary team ensures that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique spinal condition.
Conclusion
Scoliosis surgery can transform lives, restoring spinal alignment, mobility, and confidence. Early evaluation and expert treatment are crucial for achieving the best outcomes.
If you or your child has scoliosis or spinal curvature, consult a specialized orthopedic surgeon in Dubai at Adam Vital Hospital. Our team of experts will guide you through diagnosis, surgery, and recovery — helping you regain movement and live a pain-free, active life.
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