What Is the Posterior Approach to Scoliosis Surgery?
The posterior approach to scoliosis surgery is the most common method used to correct abnormal spinal curvatures. In this approach, the surgeon accesses the spine from the back, making an incision along the midline of the patient’s back. This allows the surgeon to directly reach the vertebrae and apply hardware, such as rods and screws, to stabilize the spine and correct the curve. The posterior approach is versatile and can be used to treat a wide range of scoliosis curves, regardless of their location in the spine.
How Does the Posterior Approach Work?
During the surgery, the surgeon makes a long incision along the back, carefully working through the muscles to expose the spine. The surgeon then places metal rods, screws, or other hardware along the spine to hold the vertebrae in the correct alignment. These rods help straighten the curve and stabilize the spine as it heals. In many cases, bone grafts are used to encourage the vertebrae to fuse, creating a solid column of bone that holds the spine in its new alignment.
The posterior approach allows the surgeon to access multiple areas of the spine, making it ideal for treating more severe curves or curves that affect the entire spine.
Benefits of the Posterior Approach
- Direct Access to the Spine: The posterior approach provides direct access to the entire spine, allowing the surgeon to make precise corrections to even the most complex curves.
- Versatility: This approach can be used to treat scoliosis in all areas of the spine, from the cervical (neck) region to the lumbar (lower back) region.
- Comprehensive Correction: Because the posterior approach allows access to the full length of the spine, it is often preferred for correcting severe or complex curves.
Considerations and Risks
While the posterior approach is highly effective, it does come with certain considerations:
- Muscle Disruption: One of the main drawbacks of the posterior approach is the need to cut through the muscles of the back to reach the spine. This can lead to more post-operative pain and a longer recovery time compared to anterior surgery.
- Longer Recovery: Recovery from posterior scoliosis surgery may take longer due to the muscle dissection involved. Patients may experience more stiffness and discomfort in the initial weeks after surgery.
- Scarring: The incision made during posterior surgery runs along the midline of the back, resulting in a visible scar. While the scar typically fades over time, it is more pronounced than scars from anterior surgery.
Who Is a Good Candidate for the Posterior Approach?
The posterior approach is often recommended for patients with more complex or severe scoliosis curves that require correction across multiple regions of the spine. It is also used in cases where the curve is located in the upper spine, where access from the back is more practical.
Patients who are otherwise healthy and have flexible curves may benefit from this approach, as it allows for comprehensive correction. However, it is important to consult with a spine specialist to determine the most appropriate surgical method based on the individual’s condition and the location of the curve.
Recovery After Posterior Scoliosis Surgery
Recovery from posterior scoliosis surgery can take several months. Patients typically spend a few days in the hospital after the procedure and are encouraged to start moving as soon as possible to promote healing and prevent complications. Physical therapy is an essential part of the recovery process, helping patients regain strength and mobility in the muscles surrounding the spine.
Post-operative pain is managed with medications, and patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending during the initial recovery period. Full recovery may take anywhere from three months to a year, depending on the severity of the curve and the individual’s overall health.
The posterior approach to scoliosis surgery is a widely used and effective method for correcting spinal curvature. It provides direct access to the spine, allowing for comprehensive correction of even the most severe curves. While the recovery process may take longer due to muscle disruption, the posterior approach remains a trusted option for treating scoliosis. If you are considering scoliosis surgery, consulting with a spine specialist will help you determine whether the posterior approach is the best option for your condition.