Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Surgery: What to Expect

Scoliosis, a condition of an abnormal curvature of the spine, affects up to nine million Americans — and from an uneven posture to chronic back pain, the symptoms can have a significant impact on your life.

Treatments like bracing and physical therapy can make a big difference, but sometimes scoliosis necessitates surgery. The good news is that minimally invasive scoliosis surgery offers a less intrusive alternative to traditional open surgeries.

David A. Wiles, MD, specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery and treats patients in Chattanooga, Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City, Tennessee. If you’re considering scoliosis surgery, here’s what you can expect.

An overview of minimally invasive scoliosis surgery

Scoliosis, a condition where your spine curves sideways — typically in an S or C shape, develops over time and often begins between the ages of 10-15.

Scoliosis curvature can cause several issues, like chronic back pain, difficulty breathing, and limited physical activity. Minimally invasive scoliosis surgery is a modern surgical approach that aims to correct spinal curvature and alleviate symptoms.

In minimally invasive surgery, Dr. Wiles uses specialized instruments and techniques to make small incisions and navigate precisely through your body. This method minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues and requires shorter recovery times than traditional open surgery.

What to expect before scoliosis surgery

Before we schedule you for minimally invasive scoliosis surgery, Dr. Wiles completes a comprehensive preoperative evaluation. He reviews your medical history, orders imaging studies like X-rays and MRI scans, and discusses your treatment options with you.

We thoroughly explain the procedure, covering potential benefits, possible risks, and alternatives. Be sure to ask any questions you may have before giving your consent to treatment.

What happens during the minimally invasive scoliosis surgery

On the day of your procedure, we start by administering general anesthesia to make sure you stay comfortable throughout surgery. Once you’re in the surgical suite, Dr. Wiles makes small incisions about one inch long to access your spine.

He guides surgical instruments and a tiny camera (endoscope) into the incisions and begins the procedure. He corrects your spinal curvature and uses various techniques like screws, rods, or other implants to stabilize your spine in its proper position.

After stabilizing your spine, Dr. Wiles closes the incisions, and we move you to a recovery room where you wake up from the anesthesia.

What to expect after scoliosis surgery

Most patients stay in the hospital for a short time following minimally invasive scoliosis surgery. During your stay, we monitor your recovery and give you instructions to follow once you return home.

While minimally invasive surgery helps minimize postoperative pain, It’s normal to experience some discomfort after scoliosis surgery. We work with you to manage pain with medication and adjust your dosage as needed.

Your recovery process depends on the crucial role of physical therapy. After surgery, you start working with a physical therapist to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. Your therapist guides you through exercises to support your spine and promote healing.

Finally, you have regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Wiles and our team. At these appointments, we monitor your progress, address any concerns, and adjust your treatment plan to help you achieve an active life following surgery.

Are you considering minimally invasive surgery for scoliosis? Get the answers you need from an experienced spine surgeon. Schedule a consultation online with Dr. Wiles or call our office at 423-459-9800 to start today.