Scoliosis is a spinal condition in which the spine bends to the side, usually creating an S or C shape. Although some normal cases can usually be treated with physical treatment or mounting, more severe cases probably need surgery to fix the curve and avoid other problems. This blog will cover necessary details such as Scoliosis Surgery: Treatment Cost & Recovery Time. Even if you are a patient, parent, or guardian, this article will help you comprehend your choices and prepare for further procedures.
What Is Scoliosis Surgery?
Scoliosis surgery is performed to straighten and stabilize the spine, preventing it from bending more. The most typical surgery is spinal fusion, where the bent part of the spine is straightened and the bones are connected to recover as one.
The primary goals of scoliosis surgery are:
- Control the curve from worsening
- Improve stance and impression
- Relieve pain or discomfort from the curvature
- Improve lung or heart function in serious cases.
Who Needs Scoliosis Surgery?
There is a criterion requiring surgery for patients with scoliosis. It is usually advisable for:
- Children or teenagers with a spinal curve of more than 45 to 50 degrees.
- Grown-ups with scoliosis who experience regular pain or nerve issues.
- Patients whose scoliosis is getting more harmful over time.
- Patients who do not get the desired results with non-surgical treatments, such as medications or physical therapy.
Doctors utilize X-rays, MRIs, and physical examinations to decide if surgery is needed. Also, they observe different aspects, such as the patient’s age, health condition, and symptoms.
Types of Scoliosis Surgery
Although spinal fusion is the widespread procedure for Scoliosis, many scoliosis surgery procedures depend on the different ages of patients, curve severity, and spinal flexibility. These procedures are:
Spinal Fusion
- In this procedure, Metal rods, screws, and bone grafts are utilized to connect the curved vertebrae into a straight position.
- It is a commonly used procedure in teenagers and adults.
Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT)
- VBT is a newer, less invasive procedure for children or youngsters who are still maturing.
- In VBT, A flexible cable is connected to the spine to straighten it while still allowing movement.
Osteotomy
- In Osteotomy, Bone is extracted or reshaped to fix more severe curves.
- It is utilized in adults or for extreme deformations.
Hemivertebra Removal
- This procedure is used for genetic scoliosis caused by irregular vertebrae.
- It involves removing the deformed vertebra and connecting the nearby bones.
What Happens Before Surgery?
The preparation before the scoliosis surgery usually involves:
- Consulting with a spinal surgeon and an anesthesiologist.
- Experiencing imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans.
- Having blood tests and health screenings.
- Obeying pre-operative guidance, such as stopping specific medications or fasting before the surgery.
Also, surgeons may advise physical treatment to boost muscles before the surgery and help with post-operative recovery.
During the Surgery: What to Expect?
During the Scoliosis Procedure:
- This surgery lasts almost 5 to 7 hours, depending on the condition of the curve and the type of surgery procedure.
- It is performed under general anesthesia.
- In Surgery, surgeons utilize rods, screws, and bone grafts to untangle the spine and keep it steady.
- In spinal fusion, the bones slowly combine to evolve as a single solid bone.
Hospital Stay:
- Most patients stay in the hospital for almost a week.
- After the surgery, pain is controlled through IV or oral medications.
- Hospital staff help patients start walking within 1 to 2 days.
Post-operative Recovery
Post-operative Recovery from scoliosis surgery takes time and can last almost a year, depending on age, health condition, and the type of procedure.
Immediate Recovery
- Many patients go home after 3 to 5 days in the hospital.
- In recovery, movement is limited, and help is required for walking, dressing, and daily activities.
- There is some normal stiffness and pain, but it can be handled with medication.
- Patients should avoid heavy lifting or bending.
Healing and Activity
- Patients can usually return to normal activities after almost 5 to 6 weeks.
- Physical treatment probably starts during this phase of recovery.
- Most patients can walk freely and do normal activities.
- Driving is usually allowed after a few weeks, which can depend on the pain and medication.
Regaining Strength
- Muscle strength and flexibility are enhanced in this phase of recovery.
- Patients can exercise normally but should avoid contact sports and heavy lifting.
- During this time, X-rays are used to review recovery and bone connection.
Complete Recovery
- Most patients can return to normal activities.
- After this, the spine continues to connect and strengthen.
- Follow-up meetings can ensure the perfect recovery and review the spinal alignment.
Cost of Scoliosis Surgery in the USA
Scoliosis surgery can be costly, particularly without insurance. The actual cost depends on different aspects, such as:
- Type of surgery
- Hospital fee
- Stay in the Hospital
- Surgeon and anesthesia fee
- Location and insurance coverage.
Some hospitals and insurance providers offer payment plans or financial assistance. Always check with your provider before booking.
Inclusions in the Cost?
The complete cost of scoliosis surgery probably includes:
- Surgeon and anesthesiologist fees
- Room, food, and medical care
- Imaging tests, such as MRI, CT, and X-ray.
- Surgical implants (rods, screws)
- Medications
- Physical treatment and post-operative care
- Follow-up meetings.
Is Scoliosis Surgery Covered by Insurance?
Many health insurance providers, such as Medicare and Medicaid, cover scoliosis surgery if it is medically required.
To improve your chances of getting insurance approval:
- Keep complete medical documents indicating the seriousness.
- Show failure from non-surgical treatments.
- Follow the treatment advice of your spine surgeon.
- Always get pre-consent from your insurance provider before organizing the surgery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, scoliosis surgery is a crucial choice for patients who have a severe spinal curve affecting their lives. Comprehending the types of surgery, preparation, and recovery helps make a perfect conclusion. The Costs of surgery can vary, so checking insurance coverage is important. Most patients can anticipate an effortless recovery and return to normal activities with suitable care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Scoliosis Surgery: Treatment Cost & Recovery Time
Question 1. What are the common symptoms of scoliosis surgery?
Answer: Scoliosis surgery is probably required if patients have a spinal curve greater than 45 to 50 degrees, experience constant pain or nerve issues, or show symptoms of worsening curvature over time.
Question 2. Is there a possible risk associated with scoliosis surgery?
Answer: Like other surgeries, scoliosis has possible risks, such as infection, bleeding, and anesthesia-related complications. It is crucial to discuss these risks with your surgeon before the procedure.
Question 3. How can we prepare for scoliosis surgery?
Answer: Pre-operative preparation for Scoliosis surgery involves consulting with your surgeon, undergoing necessary tests, such as imaging and blood tests, and following pre-operative guidance correctly.
