Scoliosis FAQ • What Is Scoliosis? • What Causes Scoliosis? • How Does the Doctor Diagnose Scoliosis? • Does Scoliosis Have To Be Treated? What Are the Treatments? • Are There Other Ways To Treat Scoliosis? • Which Brace Is Best? • If the Doctor Recommends Surgery, Which Procedure Is Best? • Can People with Scoliosis Exercise? • What Are Researchers Trying To Find Out About Scoliosis? • Where Can People Get More Information About Scoliosis?

Many surgical techniques can be used to correct the curves of scoliosis. The main surgical procedure is correction, stabilization, and fusion of the curve. Fusion is the joining of two or more vertebrae. Surgeons can choose different ways to straighten the spine and also different implants to keep the spine stable after surgery. (Implants are devices that remain in the patient after surgery to keep the spine aligned.) The decision about the type of implant will depend on the cost; the size of the implant, which depends on the size of the patient; the shape of the implant; its safety; and the experience of the surgeon. Each patient should discuss his or her options with at least two experienced surgeons.

Patients and parents who are thinking about surgery may want to ask the following questions:

• What are the benefits from surgery for scoliosis?
• What are the risks from surgery for scoliosis?
• What techniques will be used for the surgery?
• What devices will be used to keep the spine stable after surgery?
• Where will the incisions be made?
• How straight will the patient's spine be after surgery?
• How long will the hospital stay be?
• How long will it take to recover from surgery?
• Is there chronic back pain after surgery for scoliosis?
• Will the patient's growth be limited?
• How flexible will the spine remain?
• Can the curve worsen or progress after surgery?
• Will additional surgery be likely?
• Will the patient be able to do all the things he or she wants to do following surgery?

Source: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.