According to the National Scoliosis Foundation, an estimated six million people, or about two to three percent of the United States population, suffer from some form of scoliosis. Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. In most cases, scoliosis can be fixed with spinal equipment, such as braces, but in other cases, scoliosis surgery may be required.
Curve
One of the most drastic benefits of scoliosis surgery is stopping the progressive curvature of the spine. Not only will this help alleviate health issues associated with scoliosis, but it will also help from a cosmetic standpoint. Those with extreme cases of scoliosis begin to show signs of the disease in their physical appearance. This is especially true in growing children, whose curve can grow as well. By performing a surgical intervention, the curve is prevented from growing as the child grows.
Lung and Heart Health
According to the Mayo Clinic, scoliosis can also have a negative affect on heart and lung health. Damage to these organs occurs as the curve reaches 70 degrees. A curve of 100 degrees can cause serious damage, especially as the rib cage begins to press against the heart and lungs. By performing surgery early enough in the progression of the disease, the spinal curve can be stopped before it causes further damage.
Future Prevention
Some advantages of scoliosis surgery are not necessarily immediate. Catching scoliosis early on and preventing it from progressing can save the patient from developing other painful related issues such as chronic back pain. Getting surgical intervention may also prevent the development of arthritis of the spine later in the adult years.
Growth
One of the first disadvantages of scoliosis surgery can be its affect on growth. Although most of a child's growth occurs in the legs, the spine may also play a role in final height as the child matures. Luckily, since the legs are not affected by the surgery, growth suppression is minimal, and the child should still grow close to the height she would have regardless of the surgery.
Surgical Complications
One of the most serious cons of scoliosis surgery is the possible health issues that can happen with any surgery. These can include the possibilities of infection, nerve damage, bleeding and allergic reactions to the anesthesia. These symptoms are especially dangerous when operating on children. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, 15 percent of children experience these complications, compared to 25 percent of adults who experience complications.
