my scoliosis question?

Question

okay im really curious has anyone everrr had scoliosis and had to have surgery for it??? and after the surgery like do you have a scar? how long did it take you to recover? and is it safe?

Answer 1

I am 19 and 2 months out of my scoliosis surgery. I did not have any breathing problems or anything like that. My doctor decided to do my surgery after watching my curve continue to grow over a year and a half. It had curved about 4 or 5 degrees over this period of time. He decided this was the best time for me to do it because I was basically done growing, and my body was strong. If we had let it go till I was, say 35, I would most likely have a longer recovery time, because I'd be older, and not as healthy and resilient. My surgeon fused a metal rod to my spine to straighten it. I have one scar, some people have 2. It goes right down the middle of my back from just under were my bra is to the top of my butt crack. It's very thin and will fade with time, but will never disappear. I am still recovering, but am doing great. I was walking the day after my surgery. I still cannot bend and I also cannot lift more than 5 lbs for 4 more months. But I will be returning to work at the beginning of next month. Scoliosis surgery is safe, but as with all major surgeries it has its risks, you have to have faith in your doctor and surgeons, they do a number of these surgeries a year, and are good at it. Research them and feel comfortable that they know what they're doing. They did NOT break my back. They straightened it, and fused a stainless steel rod to it, using bone they took from my hip, to keep me straight. I will always have a slight curve, but the rod keeps my scoliosis from getting any worse. They do not have to go back in and adjust my bar, and I personally will not have to go through any additional surgeries for my scoliosis. Talk with your doctor about your concerns, he's there to answer your questions. Nothing you ask him will be anything new to him, and he can tell you about your individual surgery. He should also be able to give you the names and numbers of some of his previous patients that have had this type of surgery and would be willing to talk to you about it. I hope this answers most of your questions. And just ask if you have anymore.

Answer 2

Surgery are only given to those who have severe cases of Scoliosis. This is to prevent further damage to the other surrounding structures and most of the time if breathing problems are involved. Expect to have a scar. But that's a different story if you are concern about having that scar for it really depends on how the skin would heal. Recovery starts a few days after the surgery is being done and depends on how well you respond on the Rehab. It is safe for it is recommended for those severe cases.

Answer 3

I have scoliosis. I have no problems with it, so I never even bothered with a lift for my shoe to make up for the 1/4 inch shorter that it makes my one leg. I might have back problems one day. I'll worry about that when the time comes. You would have a long scar though. they have to break your back and insert metal rods. let it heal and then adjust it. I think it is pretty safe though. I went to school with a girl and she was fine. No sure on recovery time though.I took care of kids that had it done, the scar goes all the way down the spine. If you need it done...get it done. It can cause really horrible problems later. If it keeps getting worse your lung can collapse.