Childhood scoliosis: when is surgery possible? Understand

The doctor warns about the main symptoms of scoliosis in children and explains the diagnosis and treatment methods

We generally associate back problems with older people. However, even the littlest ones can suffer from diseases in this region of the body, such as infantile scoliosis. In these cases, the earlier the diagnosis is identified, the greater the chance of successful treatment.

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What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a deformity understood as misalignment of the spine. Therefore, the spine twists on its axis, tilting forward or backward and to the sides; that is, on a three-dimensional plane (also known as an “S-column”).

Cases of childhood scoliosis are most common during the growth spurt just before puberty. Most conditions, however, are mild, with few symptoms. However, the disease can become more serious as the child grows, warns spinal neurosurgeon Dr. Guilherme Rossoni.

According to the doctor, children will develop these spinal deformities, and in severe cases, they can be disabling and very painful. “If left untreated, it could progress to respiratory compromise. Therefore, early diagnosis is essential to reverse the clinical picture,” she emphasizes.

The main sign of attention, according to the professional, is if the child’s shoulder falls more on one side or the other. “In this case it is time to seek a specialist for clinical investigation,” emphasizes Dr. Guilherme.

Diagnosis and treatment options

In addition to x-rays of the spine, CT scans and MRIs of the spine, a specialist should look at the spine from behind, since in this position the pathology is more easily detected.

Generally, the treatments indicated include RPG, physiotherapy and postural re-education, and in more serious cases the use of braces or even surgery via arthrodesis (fixation with nails and screws) is indicated.

Prevention is the best way to avoid suffering from scoliosis, one of the causes of which is poor posture and functionality. There are also cases in which the problem has a congenital origin, already at the birth of the child, due to incorrect formation of the vertebrae during pregnancy.

«In the most serious cases and with the need for surgery, we recommend that the operation is indicated for children over 10 years of age, an age which, in general, has complete skeletal development. Of course, the intervention will depend on many other factors. and degree of scoliosis, for patients who have curves that are severe and detrimental to quality of life and well-being,” says the doctor.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.