Adolescent Scoliosis
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We will provide information on surgical methods for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, the length of hospital stay, and whether the procedures are covered by insurance.
Adolescent Scoliosis
What is Adolescent Scoliosis?
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, which progresses from adolescence to young adulthood, differs from the spinal deformities seen in middle-aged and older adults. In adolescent scoliosis, there is less deformation of the bones and intervertebral discs, and the deformity is generally more flexible.
Symptoms
Typically, there are no symptoms such as pain, and the condition is often detected during school screenings. For curves up to around 30 degrees measured by the Cobb angle, bracing therapy is used. If bracing is ineffective and the curve exceeds 40 degrees, surgery may be indicated. When the Cobb angle reaches approximately 60 degrees, it can impair respiratory function, such as lung capacity.
Treatment methods
Bones can be relatively easily measured, so if a decrease in bone density is observed, medications that increase bone density or strengthen bones may be administered. If compression fractures have already occurred, braces or casts may be used to alleviate pain and prevent spinal deformities. If appropriate treatment is not provided at the hospital, the bones may fail to heal properly, and pain may persist.
Surgical methods
Surgery involves correcting the deformity using screws inserted from the posterior approach in scoliosis surgery.