Scoliosis Surgery

Scoliosis surgery is performed to correct abnormal spinal curvature, restore spinal balance, and prevent the progression of spinal deformity. In addition to improving spinal alignment, surgery can help relieve pain, enhance mobility, and improve overall quality of life in appropriately selected patients. For individuals with severe scoliosis, surgical treatment may also help preserve lung function and reduce the risk of long-term complications associated with progressive spinal deformity.

Mexico has become a leading destination for scoliosis surgery, offering experienced spine surgeons, advanced medical technology, and internationally recognized standards of care. Patients from around the world choose Dr. Navarro for his expertise in complex spinal deformities, personalized treatment plans, and access to high-quality, cost-effective spine care.

Understanding Scoliosis and Its Impact

Scoliosis is a three-dimensional spinal deformity characterized by an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, often accompanied by rotation of the vertebrae. Although it most commonly develops during adolescence, scoliosis can also occur in adults due to age-related degeneration or other underlying conditions.

The most common types of scoliosis include:

• Idiopathic Scoliosis: The most common form, accounting for the majority of cases, with no identifiable cause.
• Congenital Scoliosis: Caused by abnormal spinal development before birth.
• Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Associated with neurological or muscular disorders such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or spina bifida.
• Degenerative (Adult) Scoliosis: Develops later in life as a result of age-related degeneration of the spinal discs and joints.

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the curvature and may include uneven shoulders or hips, an uneven waistline, back pain, muscle fatigue, changes in posture, and, in severe cases, reduced lung function or difficulty breathing. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, neurological assessment, standing X-rays, and, when necessary, MRI or CT imaging to evaluate the spinal deformity and guide treatment planning.

When is Scoliosis Surgery Needed?

Scoliosis surgery may be recommended when:

• The spinal curvature is severe, typically measuring greater than 45–50 degrees in adolescents or continuing to progress despite observation or bracing.
• The spinal deformity is worsening, increasing the risk of long-term spinal imbalance or functional limitations.
• Persistent pain or neurological symptoms significantly affect daily activities and quality of life.
• Pulmonary function is compromised due to severe spinal deformity.
• Conservative treatments, such as observation, physical therapy, or bracing when appropriate, have not prevented progression or adequately controlled symptoms.
• Adult degenerative scoliosis causes spinal instability, nerve compression, or disabling back and leg pain that does not improve with nonsurgical treatment.

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Types of Scoliosis Surgery

The most appropriate scoliosis surgery depends on the patient's age, the type and severity of the spinal curve, skeletal maturity, and overall spinal health. Dr. Navarro develops a personalized treatment plan based on each patient's unique condition and long-term goals.

Common surgical options include:

• Spinal Fusion: The gold standard for treating moderate to severe scoliosis. During this procedure, the curved vertebrae are realigned and stabilized using rods, screws, and bone grafts to prevent further progression of the spinal deformity.
• Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT): A motion-preserving procedure designed for carefully selected adolescents who are still growing. A flexible cord is attached to the vertebrae to gradually correct the spinal curve while allowing continued spinal growth.
• Growing Rods: Used primarily in young children with early-onset scoliosis. These expandable rods help control spinal curvature while allowing the spine and chest to continue growing.
• Magnetically Controlled Growing Rods (MCGR): An advanced version of growing rods that can be lengthened noninvasively using an external magnetic controller, reducing the need for repeated surgeries during growth.

Dr. Navarro will recommend the most appropriate surgical approach based on the patient's diagnosis, age, spinal flexibility, and treatment objectives.

The Surgical Process

Preoperative Preparation

Before surgery, patients undergo a comprehensive evaluation that may include a physical examination, standing X-rays, MRI or CT imaging when indicated, pulmonary function testing for severe curves, and routine laboratory studies. Detailed preoperative instructions regarding medications, fasting, and postoperative recovery are provided to help ensure a safe surgical experience.

The Day of Surgery

On the day of surgery, patients are admitted to the hospital, where the surgical team reviews the treatment plan and administers general anesthesia. Depending on the complexity of the spinal deformity, scoliosis surgery typically lasts several hours.

The Surgery Itself

The surgical technique varies depending on the procedure being performed. During spinal fusion, the surgeon carefully realigns the spine using specialized rods and pedicle screws before placing bone grafts to promote permanent fusion between the affected vertebrae. In selected adolescents, vertebral body tethering (VBT) is performed by placing screws along the side of the spine and connecting them with a flexible tether that gradually corrects the curve while preserving motion and allowing continued growth.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Immediate Postoperative Care

Following surgery, patients are closely monitored in the hospital for pain management, neurological assessment, and early mobilization. Hospital stays typically range from several days depending on the procedure performed and the patient's overall recovery.

Long-term Recovery

Recovery following scoliosis surgery is gradual and individualized. Physical therapy and guided rehabilitation help patients restore strength, flexibility, and confidence while safely returning to daily activities. Most patients resume school or light activities within several weeks, although full recovery and return to unrestricted activities may take several months depending on the procedure and the extent of spinal correction. Regular follow-up appointments allow Dr. Navarro to monitor spinal healing, implant stability, and long-term alignment.

Risks and Complications

Like any major spinal procedure, scoliosis surgery carries potential risks, although serious complications are uncommon when performed by an experienced spine surgeon. Potential risks include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve injury
• Blood clots
• Failure of the bones to fuse properly (pseudarthrosis)
• Implant or hardware-related complications
• Adjacent segment degeneration over time
• Risks associated with general anesthesia

Dr. Navarro utilizes advanced surgical techniques, meticulous preoperative planning, and comprehensive postoperative care to help minimize these risks and promote a safe recovery. Every patient undergoes a thorough evaluation to determine the safest and most effective surgical approach for their condition.

Success Rates and Outcomes

The success of scoliosis surgery depends on several factors, including the type and severity of the spinal deformity, the patient's age, overall health, and the surgical procedure performed. When surgery is recommended for the appropriate indication, many patients experience significant improvements in spinal alignment, posture, pain, and overall quality of life.

Long-term outcomes are further enhanced through regular follow-up care, appropriate rehabilitation, and maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle. Dr. Navarro develops individualized treatment plans designed to achieve lasting spinal stability while helping patients return to their normal daily activities with greater comfort and confidence.

Conclusion

Scoliosis surgery can effectively correct spinal deformity, improve spinal balance, and enhance quality of life for patients with moderate to severe scoliosis. By addressing progressive curvature and restoring proper spinal alignment, surgery can help reduce pain, improve function, and prevent future complications.

Because every case of scoliosis is unique, selecting the most appropriate treatment strategy is essential for achieving the best possible outcome. Dr. Navarro provides personalized surgical care tailored to each patient's diagnosis, age, and long-term goals.

If you are considering scoliosis surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Navarro to discuss your treatment options and determine the most appropriate approach for your condition.

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How do I know if I need scoliosis surgery?

Scoliosis surgery may be recommended when the spinal curve is severe, typically greater than 45–50 degrees in adolescents, continues to progress despite observation or bracing, or causes significant pain, spinal imbalance, neurological symptoms, or reduced lung function. Adults with degenerative scoliosis may also be candidates if they experience persistent pain or nerve compression that does not improve with conservative treatment. Dr. Navarro will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether surgery is the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

What types of surgery are available for scoliosis?

The most appropriate procedure depends on the patient's age, skeletal maturity, and the severity of the spinal deformity. Common surgical options include spinal fusion, vertebral body tethering (VBT) for carefully selected adolescents who are still growing, and growing rod systems for children with early-onset scoliosis. Dr. Navarro will recommend the treatment that best fits your diagnosis and long-term goals.

How long does it take to recover from scoliosis surgery?

Recovery varies depending on the procedure performed and the extent of the spinal correction. Most patients return to school, work, or light daily activities within several weeks, while complete healing and return to unrestricted activities may take 6–12 months. Following Dr. Navarro's rehabilitation program and postoperative instructions is essential for achieving the best possible outcome.

Is scoliosis surgery safe?

Scoliosis surgery is generally considered safe when performed by an experienced spine surgeon. As with any major procedure, potential risks include infection, bleeding, nerve injury, blood clots, and complications related to spinal implants or bone healing. Advances in surgical planning, intraoperative monitoring, and modern fixation techniques have significantly improved patient safety and surgical outcomes.

Will scoliosis surgery straighten my spine completely?

The goal of scoliosis surgery is to safely correct the spinal deformity, restore spinal balance, and prevent further progression of the curve. While surgery often produces a significant improvement in spinal alignment, achieving a perfectly straight spine is not always possible or necessary. The amount of correction depends on the type, location, and flexibility of the curve.

Will I lose mobility after scoliosis surgery?

Spinal fusion permanently limits motion in the fused portion of the spine. However, most patients adapt well and continue to perform normal daily activities without significant limitations. The remaining mobile segments of the spine help preserve flexibility, and many patients are able to return to work, sports, and other activities following rehabilitation.

How long do scoliosis surgery results last?

The correction achieved through scoliosis surgery is designed to be long-lasting. Once the vertebrae have successfully fused, the corrected portion of the spine remains stable. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying physically active, and attending regular follow-up appointments help support long-term spinal health and function.

What are the risks of scoliosis surgery?

Like any major spinal procedure, scoliosis surgery carries potential risks, including infection, bleeding, nerve injury, blood clots, failure of the bones to fuse properly (pseudarthrosis), hardware-related complications, and risks associated with anesthesia. Careful surgical planning and comprehensive postoperative care help minimize these risks.

Will I need physical therapy after scoliosis surgery?

Yes. Physical therapy is often an important part of recovery, helping patients restore strength, improve posture, increase flexibility, and safely return to daily activities. Dr. Navarro develops individualized rehabilitation plans based on each patient's surgery, age, and recovery progress.

Can adults have scoliosis surgery?

Yes. While scoliosis is commonly diagnosed during adolescence, adults may also benefit from surgery if they have progressive spinal deformity, degenerative scoliosis, persistent back or leg pain, spinal imbalance, or nerve compression that has not improved with conservative treatment. Dr. Navarro will determine whether surgical treatment is appropriate based on your symptoms, imaging findings, and overall health.

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