Scoliosis surgery may be considered if:

• The spinal curve is greater than 40–50 degrees in adolescents or adults
  
  
• The curve is progressing despite non-surgical treatment
  
  
• Significant pain, nerve compression, or functional limitations are present
  
  
• Non-surgical treatments such as bracing or physical therapy have failed to control symptoms
  

• Spinal Fusion – The most common scoliosis surgery. Vertebrae are fused together with rods, screws, or other hardware to stabilize the spine and prevent further curvature.
  
  
• Growing Rods / Expandable Rods – Used in children to allow continued spinal growth while controlling the curve.
  
  
• Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) – A minimally invasive option for select children/adolescents that uses a flexible cord to correct spinal curvature while preserving movement.
  
  

• Preoperative evaluation – X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to assess spine anatomy and curve severity
  
  
• Medical clearance – Blood tests, heart and lung evaluations, and other assessments as needed
  
  
• Discussion of surgical plan – Type of surgery, expected outcomes, and risks

• Hospital stay – Usually several days depending on surgery type and recovery progress
  
  
• Pain management – Medications and other therapies to control post-surgical pain
  
  
• Physical therapy – Gentle exercises and mobility training to aid recovery
  
  
• Activity restrictions – Avoiding heavy lifting, twisting, or high-impact activities for several months
  
  
• Follow-up visits – Regular imaging and evaluations to monitor healing and spinal alignment
  
  

Like all surgeries, scoliosis surgery carries potential risks, including:

• Infection or bleeding
  
  
• Nerve injury, which may cause weakness, numbness, or paralysis (rare)
  
  
• Hardware problems, such as rod breakage or screw loosening
  
  
• Nonunion or incomplete spinal fusion
  
  
• Continued pain or residual curvature
  

• Most patients experience significant improvement in posture, spinal stability, and pain relief
  
  
• Full recovery can take 6–12 months, with gradual return to normal activities
  
  
• Regular follow-up is essential to monitor hardware, fusion, and overall spine health
  
  
• Patients can often resume school, work, and low-impact sports once cleared by their surgeon

Scoliosis surgery may be appropriate if:

• Your spinal curve is severe or worsening
  
  
• Non-surgical treatments, such as bracing or physical therapy, have not provided relief
  
  
• Pain, nerve compression, or functional limitations affect your daily life
  
  
• You are generally healthy enough to undergo surgery and recovery
  
  

A qualified spine surgeon will evaluate your imaging studies, overall health, and lifestyle to determine if surgery is the best option for you. Surgery is individualized, and the decision should balance potential benefits with risks and recovery expectations.