In years past, when an individual required scoliosis surgery, the only viable option was an open spine surgery that was used to correct the spinal abnormality. However, in recent years, thanks to a number of exciting advances in medical technology, adult onset scoliosis can occasionally be managed using state-of-the-art endoscopic means. But what exactly is the difference between these two approaches to scoliosis surgery and how do you find out what is best for your condition?

For starters, a distinction for the purposes of this article must be made between adult onset scoliosis (or degenerative scoliosis) and congenital or neuromuscular scoliosis. That’s because degenerative scoliosis is most commonly seen in individuals over the age of 65 and can be traced to the natural degenerative process that occurs in the spinal column. In short, the abnormal curvature of the spine consistent with scoliosis is caused, in this instance, by the deterioration of the facet joints in the spine. These facet joints connect adjacent vertebrae and normally stabilize the spine, but when years of wear and tear take its toll, the spine can become misaligned. For patients suffering from this condition, several scoliosis surgery options now exist; for individuals suffering from scoliosis that is caused by a neuromuscular disease or congenital defect, an entirely different treatment path will need to be taken.

Now that’s out of the way, we can discuss how surgery can be used to treat degenerative scoliosis.

Historically, an individual suffering from chronic pain from adult onset scoliosis would schedule an open spine surgery, such as spinal fusion. During this operation, the patient would be admitted to the hospital, placed under anesthesia and prepped for surgery. Once sedated, a large incision would be made near the affected area of the spinal column and musculature would be carefully cut in order to provide the surgeon with access to the spine. Using bone grafts, surgical hardware, and other tools, the misalignment would be corrected and the procedure would be completed. The issue with this approach is that it is obviously highly invasive and requires extensive recovery and rehabilitation for the patient in order to regain full strength. Plus, because of the collateral damage done to the soft tissue that supports the spine, a notable risk for post-operative complications, such as hemorrhaging, infection, and extensive scar tissue formation, is an ever-present concern.

In recent years, another type of scoliosis surgery has grown popular because it is conducted using state-of-the-art endoscopic technology. During this procedure, only very small incisions (less than an inch long) are required to give the surgeon the access to the spinal column that he or she requires. Using advanced camera technology, gentle laser technology, and other tools, the surgeon can realign the spine, insert bone grafts and even install stabilizing hardware. What’s more, since soft tissue is pushed gently aside rather than cut, this greatly reduces the strain placed on the patient. The end result is a procedure that is quicker and less invasive than open spine surgery.

Each approach has its own distinct advantages and not everyone will be a candidate for a minimally invasive stabilization technique, but it is important to explore your options to ensure that the scoliosis surgery that you select is right for you.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient spine procedures that may be a compelling alternative to traditionalscoliosis surgery for patients suffering from adult onset scoliosis.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient treatment options, including minimally invasive alternatives to invasive scoliosis surgery for patients who have developed the condition later in life. http://www.laserspineinstitute.com/back_problems/scoliosis/surgery/

Author Bio: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient spine procedures that may be a compelling alternative to traditionalscoliosis surgery for patients suffering from adult onset scoliosis.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: scoliosis surgery