.svg)
Spinal deformities such as kyphosis, flatback syndrome, and post-traumatic curvature can cause more than just visible imbalance—they can lead to chronic pain, fatigue, and even compromise breathing or digestion. In severe cases where the spine becomes rigid and nonresponsive to conservative treatments, a highly specialized procedure known as spinal osteotomy may be required to restore alignment and stability.
This surgery is a powerful tool in modern spine reconstruction. By removing a carefully measured wedge of bone, a spinal osteotomy allows surgeons to reshape the spinal column and bring it back into proper balance. The result is not only an improved posture, but also a significant reduction in pain and an enhanced ability to move comfortably.
At Spine Center Vallarta, Dr. Gustavo Navarro performs spinal osteotomies with a focus on precision, safety, and functional recovery—combining experience, technology, and patient-centered care to deliver life-changing outcomes.
You may also want read: How effective is spinal decompression surgery?
Understanding Spinal Osteotomy
A spinal osteotomy is a surgical procedure designed to correct severe spinal deformities by removing a wedge-shaped section of bone from one or more vertebrae. Once this bone segment is removed, the spine can be manipulated into a more natural alignment and secured using rods and screws. Over time, bone grafts placed during surgery fuse the vertebrae, creating long-term stability.
This technique is especially valuable for patients whose spinal curves are rigid or fixed—conditions that cannot be corrected through physical therapy, bracing, or standard decompression surgeries. When the spine’s curvature causes pain, postural imbalance, or restricted organ function, osteotomy becomes a corrective and often restorative solution.
When Is a Spinal Osteotomy Recommended?
Spinal osteotomy is typically considered when non-surgical options no longer relieve symptoms or when the deformity continues to progress despite conservative management. Patients often experience chronic pain, limited mobility, or the inability to stand upright without support. Others notice fatigue, muscle tension, or even breathing difficulties caused by abnormal spinal alignment.
Rather than focusing solely on the curvature’s degree, surgeons like Dr. Navarro evaluate how the deformity affects balance, pain, and quality of life. Advanced imaging helps determine whether the curvature is flexible or rigid and how much correction is possible.
Candidates are usually adults with conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis, Scheuermann’s kyphosis, or post-surgical flat back deformity. In these cases, osteotomy may be the only way to restore the spine’s natural contour and relieve the mechanical strain affecting surrounding muscles and joints.
The Main Goals of Spinal Osteotomy Surgery
The purpose of spinal osteotomy goes beyond improving appearance. Its goals are functional, structural, and physiological. The surgery aims to restore sagittal balance, allowing the spine to align naturally with the body’s center of gravity. This correction helps reduce pain and muscular fatigue while enabling patients to stand and walk without compensatory postures.
In addition to improving balance and relieving pain, spinal osteotomy can enhance pulmonary and digestive function by alleviating compression of the thoracic and abdominal cavities. Many patients also report a renewed sense of energy and confidence once their posture and mobility are restored.
Ultimately, the procedure seeks to stabilize the spine for the long term, preventing further deformity progression and improving quality of life.
How a Spinal Osteotomy Is Performed
Although each patient’s case is unique, the core steps of spinal osteotomy surgery follow a systematic approach that prioritizes safety and precision. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and patients are positioned carefully to allow for optimal surgical access and alignment.
After making a midline incision, Dr. Navarro exposes the affected vertebrae while protecting surrounding muscles and nerves. Pedicle screws are inserted into the vertebrae above and below the target area, serving as anchors for realignment.
Once stabilization is ensured, the surgeon removes a wedge-shaped segment of bone from the vertebral column. The size of this wedge determines the degree of correction. The spine is then gently repositioned into a more natural curve and secured using metal rods.
Finally, bone graft material is placed around the site to promote fusion, ensuring that the corrected alignment becomes permanent. The incision is closed, and the patient is transferred to recovery for observation.
Types of Spinal Osteotomy
Different types of osteotomies allow varying levels of correction depending on the severity and rigidity of the deformity.
The Posterior Column Osteotomy (PCO), also known as the Smith-Petersen osteotomy, involves removing parts of the facet joints and posterior bony elements. It’s typically used for flexible deformities and provides around 10–20 degrees of correction per spinal level.
For more severe deformities, a Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy (PSO) offers greater correction by removing a triangular wedge of bone from both the back and front of a vertebral body. This allows the spine to close the gap as it bends backward, restoring proper curvature—particularly useful in rigid lumbar deformities like flatback syndrome.
The most extensive option, Vertebral Column Resection (VCR), involves the complete removal of one or more vertebral segments. It is reserved for the most severe or complex cases, such as congenital deformities or failed previous surgeries. This technique requires meticulous reconstruction but offers the greatest degree of correction.
Each technique is carefully selected based on patient anatomy, spinal flexibility, and surgical goals. Dr. Navarro’s expertise ensures the chosen approach provides optimal correction with minimal risk.
Benefits of Spinal Osteotomy
The benefits of spinal osteotomy extend well beyond visible alignment improvements. Patients who undergo this surgery often experience significant pain relief, improved balance, and a better overall sense of stability.
By restoring the natural curvature of the spine, the surgery reduces strain on surrounding muscles and joints. Many patients report that standing and walking become less tiring, and previously restricted activities—like climbing stairs or lifting light objects—become possible again.
In addition to musculoskeletal benefits, osteotomy can also improve respiratory efficiency. When the spine’s curvature compresses the chest or abdomen, organs may be restricted; correction relieves this pressure, making breathing and digestion easier. Over time, patients often notice greater endurance, mobility, and an improved quality of life.
Risks and Considerations
Like all major spinal procedures, osteotomy carries certain risks. Potential complications include blood loss, infection, nerve irritation, or incomplete bone fusion. However, advances in surgical technology, careful preoperative evaluation, and intraoperative neuromonitoring have made these risks increasingly rare.
Before recommending surgery, Dr. Navarro conducts a comprehensive assessment that includes medical history, bone density studies, and cardiopulmonary evaluation. This preparation ensures that each patient’s body is ready for surgery and capable of healing successfully.
While the recovery process can be demanding, most patients find that the long-term benefits of improved posture and pain reduction far outweigh the temporary discomfort.
Recovery After Spinal Osteotomy
Recovery from spinal osteotomy is gradual but rewarding. Patients typically remain in the hospital for several days after surgery for monitoring and initial rehabilitation. Early movement, often with the assistance of physical therapists, begins within the first few days to encourage circulation and prevent stiffness.
Pain management is a key focus during the early phase, and modern pain control strategies allow most patients to transition from intravenous medication to oral prescriptions within a few days.
Rehabilitation continues at home, with physical therapy tailored to strengthen the back and core muscles. Most patients can return to light activities within a few months, though full bone fusion—and therefore complete spinal stability—takes about six to twelve months. During this time, regular follow-up visits and imaging confirm proper healing and alignment.
The pace of recovery varies, but with consistent care and adherence to rehabilitation protocols, patients often regain their independence and mobility faster than expected.
Who Is a Candidate for Spinal Osteotomy?
The ideal candidate for spinal osteotomy is an adult with a rigid, symptomatic spinal deformity that limits movement or causes chronic pain. Patients should have adequate bone density and overall health to tolerate surgery and recovery.
Even older adults can be candidates if the deformity severely affects their function or comfort. The most important consideration is not age alone, but the individual’s physical condition, bone strength, and ability to participate in postoperative rehabilitation.
Dr. Navarro’s patient evaluations are comprehensive, taking into account not only X-rays and MRIs but also the patient’s lifestyle, expectations, and long-term goals. This ensures that each surgical plan aligns with what truly matters to the individual: comfort, mobility, and lasting relief.
Advanced Techniques and Technology
Modern spinal osteotomy procedures benefit from remarkable advancements in surgical technology. At Spine Center Vallarta, Dr. Navarro uses 3D imaging, surgical navigation, and neuromonitoring systems to guide every step of the procedure. These tools enhance precision, improve safety, and reduce the risk of complications.
Additionally, refined surgical instrumentation allows for smaller incisions and more controlled corrections, helping minimize blood loss and speed recovery. These innovations, combined with Dr. Navarro’s specialized training in complex spinal reconstruction, contribute to excellent long-term outcomes and patient satisfaction.
FAQs About Spinal Osteotomy
Is spinal osteotomy safe?
Yes. Although complex, it is considered safe when performed by an experienced spinal surgeon. Continuous monitoring and modern surgical tools greatly reduce the risk of complications.
How long does the surgery take?
The duration varies depending on the deformity’s complexity. On average, procedures can last between four and ten hours, with longer times for multi-level corrections.
Will my mobility be limited afterward?
While the fused segments themselves no longer move, patients often experience better overall flexibility and function because their spine is properly balanced.
Is the recovery painful?
Some discomfort is expected, but pain is effectively managed through medications and rehabilitation. Most patients report significant long-term pain relief compared to pre-surgery levels.
What results can I expect long-term?
Most patients achieve lasting correction, reduced pain, and improved mobility. Success rates are high—typically above 85%—when surgery is performed by a qualified spinal specialist.
Conclusion
A spinal osteotomy is more than a corrective surgery—it’s a transformative procedure that restores alignment, stability, and quality of life for patients suffering from severe spinal deformities. Through precise bone removal and realignment, it relieves chronic pain, enhances posture, and helps patients return to an active, upright life.
If you’re experiencing progressive spinal curvature or chronic pain that limits your mobility, an evaluation by an experienced spine surgeon can determine whether a spinal osteotomy is the right solution for you.
At Spine Center Vallarta, Dr. Gustavo Navarro specializes in complex spinal reconstruction, offering advanced techniques designed for long-term stability and optimal function. You can schedule a consultation with Dr. Navarro to learn more about your options and take the first step toward restoring your spinal health and mobility.
.webp)
