What is scoliosis surgery?

Surgery may be used to treat severe scoliosis. It usually involves stabilizing the spine and keeping the curve from getting worse by permanently joining the vertebrae together (called spinal fusion).

Other techniques are sometimes used. One technique is called instrumentation without fusion. Devices such as metal rods are attached to the spine. They can stabilize a spinal curve without fusing the spine together.

Surgery may be an option if:

• Your child has a moderate to severe curve, and the curve is getting worse.
• Your child has pain or trouble doing daily activities.

Experts have different opinions about the timing of surgery to treat scoliosis in young children. Spinal fusion stops the growth of the fused part of the spine. So some experts believe that surgery should be delayed until the child is older. But even after surgery, the rest of the spine will grow normally in children who are still growing.