SCOLIOSIS
The pediatric orthopedic surgeons at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics & Spine Specialists offer the most advanced treatment options available. Thus, for children with painful scoliosis, this means there are many methods to successfully treat a child’s condition. To date, we have successfully performed more than 16,000 spine surgeries.
We specialize in treating scoliosis from children all the way to adults.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a muscular disorder in which the spine curves to the left or right when viewed from the back — creating an S or C-shaped curve. At our practice, our physicians diagnose and treat all types of scoliosis in children. We see cases from mild to severe and offer the most advanced conservative treatment options. Most children with this condition may not need complex treatments, but they do need to be evaluated.
To begin with, our treatment starts with a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis of a child. Together, we will discuss options with honesty and compassion. We partner with parents every step of the way. Thus, we can develop a personalized treatment plan for your child that makes you feel comfortable and confident in your decision.
In many cases, our team of specialists will follow up with you and your child in four to six months. Then, we will monitor your child’s progress into adulthood when the disease can become more severe. Or determine that your child’s risk is so low that your child’s condition will not progress.
As part of the Southwest Scoliosis Institute, we are recognized as leaders in Scoliosis and Scoliosis Research. Our research includes the spectrum of scoliosis, from diagnosis, and genetic possibilities to successful surgical outcomes. Please take time to look at our Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute website to get more in-depth information regarding all types of scoliosis, diagnosis, and treatments available.
The Main Types of Scoliosis are:
- Idiopathic scoliosis. 80 percent of these cases are idiopathic, making it the most common type. Idiopathic means that doctors can’t pinpoint the cause of the spinal curvature. It is further classified by the age of the patient.
- Infantile scoliosis, also known as early onset, develops in children, mostly boys, under age 3.
- Juvenile scoliosis, more common in girls, occurs between the ages of 3 and 10.
- Adolescent scoliosis makes up the majority of idiopathic cases. It’s most common in girls between the ages of 11 and 17.
- Congenital scoliosis is present at birth and happens when the vertebrae fail to develop properly in utero. This type is rare and is often seen with other health issues related to the heart, kidney, or bladder.
- In neuromuscular-related scoliosis, the curve in the spine is caused by a neuromuscular condition such as spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, or cerebral palsy.
Symptoms
For children with scoliosis, they may experience lower back pain or discomfort but most commonly, the symptoms are seen in their physical appearance. They include:
- Shoulders appear uneven
- One hip is higher than the other
- Waist looks uneven
- The rib cage is more prominent on one side
- Pelvis is tilted
Diagnosis
At Medical City Children’s Orthopedics & Spine Specialists, our board-certified pediatric orthopedic physicians perform a comprehensive evaluation. Then with the diagnosis for your child’s condition they create a personalized treatment plan. As an example, our evaluation may include:
- A medical history
- A physical exam
- An X-ray and/or CT scan
While growing up, Joy suffered from severe scoliosis which hindered her from joining in on the activities she loved. Because of her scoliosis, Joy’s mother brought her to be diagnosed by Dr. Shyam Kishan. By collaborating with Joy and her family, Dr. Kishan created a treatment plan and explained everything every step of the way. After her successful surgery, Joy is so happy and has resumed all the activities she loves, like archery, equestrian riding, and biking to name a few.
Treatment for Scoliosis
After we complete a thorough evaluation, our team will develop a treatment plan tailored to your child’s specific condition. Based on several factors, age, location, and type of curve, different treatment options will be offered. Additionally, if there are other health issues or concerns we will discuss those, but we consider surgery only when needed.
Meanwhile, our surgeons use the most advanced treatments. Because we want to ensure that our patients return to playing sports, and other activities, as soon as possible. In recent years, the medical profession has made great advances in the diagnosis and treatment of scoliosis. Due to enhanced recovery techniques after spine, pelvic and hip procedures, our patient’s hospital stays are shorter than most.
Observation
In addition, many of our patients do not require surgery to correct their condition. However, children often need to be observed closely before and during their adolescent growth spurts. In the event, that curves may be progressing rapidly. And it will also identify those that remain stable over time.
Bracing
For spine curves in children that have grown, we commonly recommend bracing. In many cases, a brace can reduce the chance of a childhood curvature progressing. In fact, sometimes a brace will reduce the chance of requiring surgery.
Spinal Rehab
To date, physical therapy is not shown to alter the rate of curvature progression in pediatric patients. On the other hand, strengthening and conditioning exercise programs often help improve back pain. Because strengthening the muscles that support the spine sometimes helps alleviate the pain.
Surgical Options
More often than not, scoliosis can be addressed with a brace. But in some cases where patients experience an increase in curvature and are in pain, surgery may be needed. Scoliosis surgeries are complex with multi-step procedures. For this reason, should your child need surgery, our highly skilled surgeons are here to help. They will provide the expert care and attention your child deserves.
While spine surgery can improve your child’s condition, it can be a stressful experience for both the child and the family. Under these circumstances, we make every effort to provide you and your family with the resources and education needed. Thus, we will help you prepare for and know what to expect during the surgery. Finally, we will make you our top priority to help make sure you are ready for surgery.
The Tether
A tether for scoliosis correction is a type of spinal implant used in a surgical procedure called vertebral body tethering (VBT). VBT is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to correct scoliosis, which is a condition where the spine curves sideways.
During a VBT procedure, a flexible cord, or “tether,” is attached to the curved part of the spine and anchored to the vertebrae on either side of the curve. The tether is then tightened to gradually straighten the spine over time. The tether is made of a strong, biocompatible material and is designed to remain in the body permanently.
VBT with a tether is a newer alternative to traditional scoliosis surgery, which involves spinal fusion. Unlike fusion, VBT allows for continued motion in the spine and does not require the use of bone grafts or hardware such as screws and rods. However, not all patients with scoliosis are candidates for VBT, and the procedure is not widely available in all regions. It is important to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine the best treatment option for your individual case.
Call 214-556-0590 to make an appointment.
Expert health care for children from birth through adolescence at four
convenient locations: Arlington, Dallas, Frisco, and McKinney.