What Is the Cost of Scoliosis Surgery? Learn About the Recovery Period Afterward!

What Is the Cost of Scoliosis Surgery? Many people wonder about the financial cost of scoliosis surgery to determine if it suits their budget or not. In this article, we will explore the important details related to scoliosis surgery, the complications that may arise from it, the reasons why a patient might consider it, and the best recommended surgeon to perform it. So, stay tuned for all the latest information.

What Is the Cost of Scoliosis Surgery?

Generally, the cost of scoliosis surgery ranges between 150,000 to 200,000 Egyptian pounds. This variation in cost is due to several factors that directly impact the price of scoliosis surgery, including:

1. The patient’s overall health and whether they have any other complications.
2. The quality and reputation of the hospital where the surgery is performed.
3. The experience, skill, and qualifications of the surgeon conducting the procedure.
4. The quality of the surgical instruments and materials used for the scoliosis correction.
5. The severity of the patient’s condition.
6. The level of post-operative care provided to the patient.
7. The country where the surgery is performed, as costs can vary from one location to another.

Reasons for Undergoing Scoliosis Surgery:

Scoliosis is a condition characterized by a lateral curvature of the spine, typically occurring during adolescence. Most cases of scoliosis have unknown causes, but there are factors that can contribute to scoliosis, including:

1. Traumatic injuries to the spine resulting from accidents or conditions like osteoporosis or arthritis.
2. Structural abnormalities in the skeletal system, such as having one leg shorter than the other.
3. Congenital spinal curvature.
4. Nervous system disorders leading to various forms of paralysis or muscular conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy.

Scoliosis Symptoms:

There are specific symptoms that may indicate scoliosis or spinal curvature, including:

1. Shoulder unevenness, with one shoulder appearing more prominent than the other.
2. Uneven waistline, with one hip higher than the other.
3. Forward tilting of the body, leading to a noticeable curvature of the spine.
4. Prominence or hump on one side of the ribcage.

Typically, scoliosis is detected during adolescence, and many individuals with mild scoliosis can perform daily functions without significant issues. However, moderate curvatures can lead to mild respiratory impairment, and severe curvatures may cause more significant health problems. Severe cases of scoliosis, with curvatures exceeding 100 degrees, can result in severe complications.

Diagnosing Scoliosis:

Scoliosis is primarily diagnosed through clinical examination. When the patient bends forward, the curvature of the spine becomes more evident, which is known as the forward bend test. Additionally, the size of the rib hump and the degree of twisting can be measured using the scoliometer.

Surface measuring devices such as digital vertebral measurements or X-ray imaging are also employed to assess the shape and degree of scoliosis and measure the curvature accurately. Pelvic and left hand X-rays are used to evaluate spinal growth and predict future developments in the condition.

Complications of Scoliosis

Most individuals with scoliosis do not experience serious problems, but in severe cases, certain complications may arise, including the following:

1. In severe and acute cases of scoliosis, the ribcage may exert pressure on the lungs, making breathing difficult.
2. Individuals who developed scoliosis during childhood are prone to chronic back pain in adulthood, especially if the curvature is significant and left untreated.
3. Worsening scoliosis leads to noticeable changes in the body, such as rib protrusions and uneven hips and shoulders, which can make the affected person feel self-conscious.

Scoliosis Surgery Procedures

A unique experience and tangible results await those who undergo scoliosis surgery provided by Dr. Amr Amal’s clinic. The scoliosis surgery involves several steps that the surgeon follows, including the following:

1. The patient undergoes general anesthesia during the surgical procedure to ensure they do not feel any pain.
2. The surgeon makes an incision in the middle of the back, exposing the muscles, and then retracts them to access the spine.
3. The surgeon places metal implants, such as screws or screws, in the vertebrae that need correction. These implants are connected using titanium rods. Subsequently, the surgeon tightens the rods securely until the spine returns to its normal position.
4. During the surgical procedure, the surgeon uses special equipment to protect the nerves and monitor the transmission of nerve signals through the spinal cord, preventing complications after surgery, such as paralysis or stroke.

Post-Scoliosis Surgery

After undergoing scoliosis surgery and completing the first month, the patient should follow up with their treating physician and undergo some examinations to ensure that there are no complications, side effects, or difficulties in movement.

It is essential to monitor the patient regularly for two years, with follow-ups at approximately six-month intervals. Physical therapy for the patient starts immediately upon returning home to accelerate the recovery period, strengthen back muscles, and improve mobility and flexibility.

Feeling pain after surgery is entirely normal and may persist for about two weeks. Therefore, the doctor prescribes some pain-relieving medications. The patient should also wear a brace for three months after the surgery. They can typically return to their normal activities after 4 to 6 weeks.

Recovery Period After Scoliosis Surgery

The recovery period after scoliosis surgery can be divided into the following stages:

1. First 14 days post-surgery: During this period, the patient may experience significant weakness due to the surgery and take various medications. They will require assistance from someone to perform daily activities. It’s crucial to get adequate rest and avoid movements that strain the spine, as well as refrain from lifting heavy objects.
2. 2 to 3 months post-surgery: During this time, the surgical incision heals, and the patient gradually reduces their reliance on medications, switching to mild pain relievers like acetaminophen. The patient can resume their normal life activities, and after 6 weeks, they will undergo X-ray imaging of the spine to monitor the fusion progress.
3. 6 to 12 months post-surgery: At this stage, the doctor will request a spinal X-ray to confirm complete fusion of the spine. If fusion has occurred, the patient can return to all their daily activities.

Complications of Scoliosis Surgery

Scoliosis surgery is a major procedure that requires the skill and competence of the surgeon to minimize potential complications after the operation. Like any surgical procedure, it carries risks, but they are relatively rare, typically not exceeding a 2% occurrence rate. These complications may include:

1. Blood clots.
2. Infections.
3. Bleeding during or after surgery.
4. Damage to the spinal nerves during surgery, leading to loss of sensation in the legs.

Success Rate of Scoliosis Surgery

Get long-lasting results and a noticeable improvement in your back posture with advanced scoliosis surgery performed by Dr. Amr Amal.

Due to technological advancements and the use of modern techniques, scoliosis surgery now has a very high success rate, ranging from 60% to 80%. Studies and research indicate that the success rate of scoliosis surgery and spinal curvature correction for patients under 16 years old is exceptionally high. The risk of complications from the surgical procedure is very low, typically between 2% to 3%, which is minimal compared to the success rate. For more details on scoliosis surgery, duration, and success rates, we recommend reading this article.

Best Scoliosis Surgeon in Egypt

Undoubtedly, scoliosis surgery is a delicate procedure that requires a skilled and highly competent surgeon. We recommend one of the best orthopedic doctors in Egypt, Dr. Amr Amal, a consultant in orthopedic and joint surgery in Ain Shams. He also works as a faculty member at Ain Shams University, where he has performed numerous successful surgeries in this field, yielding excellent results and patient recovery from spinal curvature. Dr. Amr Amal is known for keeping up with the latest techniques and technologies used in surgical procedures to achieve the desired outcome. Additionally, he is known for his attentive approach to patient complaints and always striving to select the best and most suitable treatment options at a reasonable cost.

Can Scoliosis Return After Surgery?

Scoliosis surgery is a precise and challenging procedure that requires an extended recovery period, which can last up to a year. During this time, it is crucial for the patient to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities as directed by the surgeon. Failure to adhere to these instructions could result in a relapse, causing the spinal curvature to return after the surgery.

Is Scoliosis Surgery Painful?

Yes, scoliosis surgery is considered a painful procedure, and discomfort typically persists after the operation. The extent of pain experienced by the patient may vary. The initial days following the surgery are often uncomfortable, but most patients start feeling better by the third or fourth day. The surgeon typically prescribes a range of pain-relieving medications and anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate pain and improve the patient’s ability to perform daily activities.

Pain gradually decreases over time, and patients can typically return to their studies or work within two to four weeks. After the first month post-surgery, any lingering pain is usually mild, and patients do not require pain relievers after six weeks. If you wish to learn more about this topic, we recommend reading the following article.

Is Scoliosis Considered a Disability?

It depends on the degree of spinal curvature and deviation. If the curvature is extremely severe, it can be considered a disability. This can only be determined through X-ray imaging, evaluating the condition, and measuring the angles on the X-ray images.

Does Scoliosis Affect Walking?

Scoliosis itself does not typically affect your daily life or walking. However, in some cases where scoliosis is neglected and left untreated, it can lead to severe deformities in the spine. These deformities can potentially hinder a person’s ability to walk or carry out their daily routines normally. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to any symptoms and consult a specialized doctor to determine the appropriate course of action based on the individual’s condition.