Risks and Complications of Scoliosis Surgery

- Postural training

Scoliosis surgery, like any major medical procedure, carries with it a spectrum of potential risks and complications.

- Juvenile scoliosis

  1. - Orthotist
  2. - Growth-friendly systems (early-onset)
  3. SCREENING AND PHYSICAL EXAM TESTS
While the goal of the surgery is to correct abnormal curvature of the spine and prevent further progression, patients and their families must be fully aware of the risks involved before consenting to the operation. This essay will explore the various risks and complications associated with scoliosis surgery to provide a comprehensive understanding of what can occur during and after the procedure.


Firstly, it is important to note that the complexity of scoliosis surgery varies from patient to patient, with risks being influenced by factors such as the severity of the curve, the patients age, overall health, and the specific surgical technique used. The most common form of scoliosis surgery is spinal fusion, which involves the joining of vertebrae to correct the curve and prevent it from worsening.


One of the primary risks of scoliosis surgery is the possibility of excessive bleeding during the operation. The spine is a region that is highly vascularized, meaning it has many blood vessels that can potentially be damaged during surgery. Blood loss can lead to the need for transfusions, which carry their own risks, including allergic reactions and transmission of infections.


Additionally, because scoliosis surgery involves the nervous system, there is a risk of nerve damage. This can result in numbness, tingling, or even paralysis in rare cases. Surgeons take great care to monitor nerve function during the procedure, often using intraoperative neuromonitoring to reduce this risk.


Infection is another significant concern. Despite the sterile environment of the operating room and the use of prophylactic antibiotics, the introduction of hardware such as rods and screws can increase the likelihood of infection. Infections can be superficial, affecting the skin and tissues around the incision, or more serious, such as a deep infection that involves the spine itself.


Another complication to consider is the possibility of hardware failure. The rods, screws, and other components used to stabilize the spine can break, move, or fail to fuse properly with the bone, potentially necessitating additional surgery. This is more likely to occur in patients who are very active or who have weak bones, such as those with osteoporosis.


Additionally, chronic pain is a risk factor associated with scoliosis surgery. While many patients experience relief from the pain caused by scoliosis following surgery, some continue to have back pain.

- Juvenile scoliosis

  1. - Posterior spinal fusion
  2. - Idiopathic scoliosis (adolescent idiopathic scoliosis; AIS)
  3. - Boston brace
This can be due to a variety of factors, including the bodys response to the surgery, the development of scar tissue, or ongoing muscular tension.


Pseudarthrosis is a condition where the intended bone fusion fails to occur, resulting in a false joint at the site. This can lead to instability and pain, often necessitating further surgical intervention. The risk of pseudarthrosis is higher in smokers and in patients who had larger curvatures or multiple levels fused.




- Postural assessment

  1. - Postural training
  2. - Juvenile scoliosis
  3. - Postural assessment

Another serious complication is spinal cord injury, which is thankfully rare. However, in cases where it does occur, the consequences can be significant, including paralysis. The risk is higher in surgeries that involve correction of severe curves or where the spinal cord is already compromised.


Lastly, scoliosis surgery can result in reduced flexibility of the spine. Since sections of the spine are fused, the range of motion in those areas will be limited. While this is an expected outcome of the surgery, it can require adjustments in lifestyle and physical activity.


In conclusion, scoliosis surgery is a major undertaking with the potential for significant benefits, but also with risks and complications that must be carefully considered. The decision to proceed with surgery should be made collaboratively by the patient, their family, and their healthcare team after a careful evaluation of the potential risks and the expected benefits. Advances in surgical techniques and post-operative care continue to reduce these risks, but they cannot be eliminated entirely. As with any surgery, informed consent and a clear understanding of the potential outcomes are key components of patient care.

Surgical Techniques for Scoliosis

Frequently Asked Questions

It is a screening maneuver where the patient bends forward; clinicians look for rib or lumbar prominence and trunk asymmetry.

A scoliometer is a handheld tool used during forward bending to estimate trunk rotation and help decide whether imaging may be warranted.

An osteotomy is a controlled bone cut used in complex deformity correction to improve alignment, often in more rigid or severe curves.