How Long Does Scoliosis Surgery Take?
The duration of scoliosis surgery may vary depending on the patient's condition, the degree of spinal curvature, and the surgical technique used. In general, scoliosis surgeries last approximately 3 to 6 hours. However, in more complex cases, this duration may be longer.
Factors Affecting the Duration of Surgery
Degree of Curvature: Larger curvatures may require longer surgical intervention. In more advanced and rigid deformities (curvatures that also have kyphosis, scoliosis over 90 degrees), the surgery may need to be performed in 2 stages.
Surgical Method: The duration of surgery may vary depending on the techniques used. While simple screw placement and correction take a shorter time, advanced deformities may require osteotomy, which can prolong the surgical time up to 2 times.
Procedures Performed During Surgery
Anesthesia: In the first stage, the patient is placed under general anesthesia and remains in a deep sleep throughout the surgery. Additional vascular access is established, such as CVP: central venous catheter and arterial line. Since neuromonitorization will be used throughout the operation, TIVA is used as the anesthetic method so that nerve transmission can be monitored comfortably.
Incision: To access the spine, we make a straight incision on the patient’s back, even if there is scoliosis. The size of this incision may vary depending on the scope of the surgery. In patients who have undergone multiple previous surgeries, the surgical approach is more difficult due to adhesions and scar tissue.
Correction of the Spine: For the correction of the spinal curvature, special polyaxial pedicle screws are used. After screw placement, titanium-cobalt rods pre-shaped with anatomical curves and connecting elements are used. With compression, distraction, and derotation maneuvers, the vertebrae are brought to the desired shape as close as possible to the ideal and fixed in place. In extremely rigid cases, bone cutting and resection can be applied based on intraoperative decision. The amount of correction is performed at the most optimal level at which neuromonitor signals do not drop during surgery, and overcorrection is avoided.
Bone Graft Application: To achieve fusion of the vertebrae, bone grafts taken mostly from the patient's own body (autograft) or obtained from another person (allograft) may be used.
Closure and Control: After all screw placement, correction, and NIM controls are completed, the final situation is checked with fluoroscopy, and once it is decided that shoulder, pelvis, and global balance are achieved, an aspirative drain is placed. Then the fascia, muscles, and skin are sutured meticulously. After that, the wound area is dressed and the surgery is completed.
First Week After Surgery
After surgery, on Day 1, the patient is seated at the edge of the bed and in-bed exercises are started immediately. Three-ball breathing exercises are very important in the first week. Postoperative complications related to the lungs are prevented with early exercises. Depending on the patient's general condition, walking in the room and in the hallway is started on the evening of Day 1 and Day 2.
The above situations may vary for each patient. After the surgery, the patient is usually monitored in the hospital for a few days and then continues recovery at home.
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only. For detailed information and personalized medical advice, please consult your physician.