Procedure guide · Spine surgery
Scoliosis surgery straightens and stabilises a sideways curve of the spine using metal rods and screws. The NHS explains that it is considered when a curve keeps getting worse despite other treatment or is severe once growth has stopped. In young children growing rods may be used instead. A spine surgeon decides whether and when surgery is needed.
What does scoliosis surgery involve?
The NHS describes two main approaches in children and young people:
- Growing rods, generally for children under 10: rods placed beside the spine limit the curve and are lengthened every few months as the child grows, sometimes with a magnetic system that needs no further cuts
- Spinal fusion, for teenagers and young adults who have stopped growing: the spine is straightened and fixed with metal rods, screws, hooks or wires plus bone grafts
The NHS describes fusion as a major operation. It says most young people stay in hospital for about a week afterwards.
Who may be considered for scoliosis surgery?
Many children need no treatment, or only monitoring with regular X-rays. A brace may be advised to stop a curve worsening during growth. The NHS says surgery is considered if scoliosis continues to worsen despite other treatment, or if it is severe and growth has stopped.
In adults the NHS says most people do not need surgery. It may be considered for a severe or worsening curve, persistent severe pain, or irritated or compressed nerves. Options include decompression surgery and spinal fusion. The NHS notes surgery is generally better at relieving leg pain than back pain. The surgeon recommends surgery only when the benefits are judged to outweigh the risks.
Which reports does a scoliosis surgeon usually ask for?
Ask the hospital whether it needs:
- full-length standing X-rays of the spine from the front and side
- earlier X-rays, so the surgeon can see whether the curve is progressing
- an MRI of the spine, if done
- for children, age, height and signs of growth stage
- lung function tests, if your doctor has done them
- notes on any related condition, such as a neuromuscular disorder
How do families plan a scoliosis surgery trip?
Fusion surgery means a hospital stay and recovery near the hospital before a long flight. Growing rods mean repeated lengthening, so ask how those would be done after you return home. Plan for remote review, a plan and estimate, visas for the patient and companions, admission and checks, surgery, the ward stay and a clearance review.
For a child, check the hospital’s rules on parents staying overnight. Plan schooling and time off. The NHS says adult spinal surgery can take a year or more to recover from fully, so arrange long-term support at home. Ask for copies of all X-rays and the implant details before you leave.
What should I ask the hospital before booking?
- Is the curve progressing and does it need surgery now?
- Which levels of the spine will be fused?
- For a young child, are growing rods suitable, and who will lengthen them later?
- Will nerve monitoring be used during surgery?
- What restrictions will apply to school, sport and flying?
- Who will review follow-up X-rays at home?
Who decides
IndiaMedica does not give medical advice. Your treating specialist decides whether this procedure suits you, the treatment plan, how long you stay and when it is safe to fly.
Questions people ask
Will a brace correct my child’s curve?
The NHS says a brace will not correct the curve but might help stop it getting worse during growth. It is usually worn for most of the day until growth finishes. Your child’s specialist decides whether bracing is suitable.
What are the risks of scoliosis surgery?
The NHS lists bleeding, wound infection, problems with the metal implants needing further surgery and, rarely, nerve damage affecting the legs, bladder or bowel. Ask your surgeon to explain these risks for your case before giving consent.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.