How does spinal fusion surgery help with Scoliosis?

Spinal fusion, also known as spondylodesis or spondylosyndesis is a complicated procedure in which two or more vertebrae are joined together. The surgery is usually recommended to patients suffering from scoliosis or other spine problems. Scoliosis is a medical condition marked by the presence of a sideways curve in the spine which can be C shaped or S-shaped. Although the problem does not induce any pain, chronic scoliosis can interfere with breathing, thereby drastically impacting the quality of life. As per the best spine surgeon in Mumbai, the problem can be genetic and one is more likely to have the problem if they have a family history of the same.

Spinal fusion surgery is offered at all the leading spine hospitals in India. The surgery is known as a fusion surgery because two or more vertebrae are joined together. This helps to straighten the spine to a great extent. Spine surgery specialists have been responsible for helping many patients suffering from scoliosis. This includes both adults as well as children.

Surgery is definitely not the only option and if your child has the problem, it does not necessarily mean that he/she needs to undergo the surgery. Sometimes doctors can simply recommend the use of braces to keep your back straight. The best hospital in Mumbai offers a wide range of treatment options for patients suffering from scoliosis. However, surgery is a must in case of severe scoliosis. Bracing can prove to be helpful in case of infants and toddlers however as the child grows, it becomes difficult to treat the problem simply by bracing. In such cases, we do need surgery. A lot of people prefer to undergo spinal fusion surgery in Vile Parle due to the very high efficiency of the procedures offered here.

The procedure is performed under the influence of anaesthesia. An incision is made on the patient's back to access the affected area. Cots are then made in the concerned bone to change its orientation. Doctors use devices like rods and screws to hold the bone in a straighter position. The devices used are placed in such a way that they do not cause any irritation or discomfort to the patient. Finally, the bone graft is packed to fuse the bones together. The wound is then sealed and covered properly to avoid any infection. The patient is kept under keen observation until he/she gains consciousness.

The surgery can be quite traumatic for your child. As such you need to be very supportive and encouraging. Your child may be required to stay in the hospital for a week or so. Patients are usually discharged after they are able to move on their own.

Doctors might recommend certain medicines to help your child deal with the pain, discomfort and muscle spasms. Physiotherapy is highly recommended to speed up the healing process and increase the range of motion. If your child is healthy, make sure he/she loses a few pounds before the spine surgery or else it can lead to complications after the surgery. Help your child to perform his/her daily activities and make sure he/she exercises on a daily basis.

Your child may develop irritable mood after the surgery. This is due to post-surgical stress. Try to maintain a happy atmosphere at home and make sure you take your child for regular checkups. Do not let your child indulge in rigorous physical activities unless recommended by his/her physician.