Anterior Open Scoliosis Correction

This operation is required by patients with a large scoliosis curvature that requires some of the discs at the front of the spine to be removed, allowing for greater correction. In some cases, this surgery is required by patients with a moderate sized curve that crosses the thoracic and lumbar spine junction.

In many of these patients, a separate posterior rod surgical procedure is not required. The front of the spine is approached through a lateral (side) incision. Sometimes a rib needs to be removed to allow the space between the ribs to be opened up.

The discs in between the vertebrae that cause the scoliosis are removed carefully, bone graft is placed between the vertebrae and a single screw is placed in each vertebral bone affected by scoliosis. A single rod is then placed into the screw heads. The screw heads are compressed together and locked off to permit straightening of the spinal curvature.

This surgery requires a hospital stay of approximately one week, followed by post-operative physiotherapy and pain relief. There is usually no need for a brace following surgery.