Scoliosis of the Spine

It is present at birth, and is caused by a bone abnormality.

This occurs due to abnormal nerves or muscles. People with spinal bifida or cerebral palsy are often found with such scoliosis.

This results from conditions such as osteoporosis (thinning of bones), bone collapse, previous back surgery, and trauma from injury or illness.

This is a condition where the cause is unidentifiable. It may be inherited and is one of the most common types.

The purpose of bracing is to halt the progression of the curve. It may provide a temporary correction and is the usual treatment choice for adolescents if their bones are still maturing.

It usually involves joining the vertebrae together permanently– called spinal fusion.

• Posterior Surgical Approach: A larger incision is made in the thoracic portion of the spine. The curvature is reduced using screws, wires, hooks, and rods. The surgeon then places a bone graft around the bones to be fused to get them to grow together and become solid.
• Anterior Surgical Approach: An open incision is made in the thoracolumbar junction (T12 – L1) and the ribs are removed (usually from the left side). The discs are removed to loosen up the spine. The curvature is reduced using screws, wires, hooks, and rods. Afterward, a bone graft is placed around the bones.