Home Spine SurgeryScoliosis Correction Surgery in India

Scoliosis Correction Surgery in India

Advanced spinal fusion surgery to correct abnormal curvature of the spine, restore proper alignment, and prevent progression in scoliosis patients.

Book Consultation - ₹999 Call Now

Overview

Scoliosis Correction Surgery is a specialized spinal procedure performed by Dr. Gurudeo Kumar at Arthoscenter, Patna to treat abnormal sideways curvature of the spine exceeding 40-50 degrees. This complex surgery involves straightening the curved spine using advanced instrumentation (rods, screws, and hooks) and fusing the affected vertebrae to prevent further progression while maintaining spine flexibility. Scoliosis, affecting approximately 2-3% of the population, can cause significant physical deformity, back pain, breathing difficulties, and reduced quality of life if left untreated. Dr. Kumar utilizes state-of-the-art surgical techniques including posterior spinal fusion, anterior spinal fusion, and minimally invasive approaches based on the severity and location of the curve. At Arthoscenter Patna, we've successfully performed over 120 scoliosis correction surgeries with an impressive 92% curve correction rate and 96% patient satisfaction. Using advanced 3D imaging and neuromonitoring during surgery, Dr. Kumar ensures optimal correction while protecting spinal cord function. Most patients experience significant improvement in appearance, pain relief, and return to normal activities within 6-12 months.

Symptoms & Indications

This surgery may be recommended if you experience:

Visible spine curvature with one shoulder or hip higher than the other

Rib hump or prominent shoulder blade when bending forward

Uneven waistline or asymmetrical body appearance

Chronic back pain that worsens with activity

Curve progression beyond 40-50 degrees confirmed by X-rays

Difficulty breathing or reduced lung capacity in severe cases

Clothing fitting unevenly or one pant leg appearing longer

Fatigue from muscle strain due to spinal imbalance

Neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness) in advanced cases

Psychological distress due to physical appearance

Procedure Details

Duration

4-6 hours (varies based on curve severity and number of vertebrae fused)

Anesthesia

General anesthesia with endotracheal intubation and continuous neuromonitoring

Preparation for Surgery

Pre-operative preparation includes comprehensive spine X-rays (standing full-length), MRI scan to assess disc health and spinal cord, and pulmonary function tests if breathing is affected. Patients undergo detailed pre-anesthetic evaluation, complete blood work, ECG, and cross-matching for potential blood transfusion. Dr. Kumar creates a detailed surgical plan using 3D spine models to determine the extent of fusion needed. Patients are advised to stop smoking 4 weeks before surgery, discontinue blood-thinning medications, and prepare for extended hospital stay and rehabilitation.

Surgical Steps

General anesthesia is administered and patient is positioned (prone for posterior approach)

Neuromonitoring electrodes are placed to monitor spinal cord and nerve function throughout surgery

Skin incision is made along the midline of the back over the curved spine segment

Muscles are carefully retracted to expose the vertebrae requiring fusion

Pedicle screws and hooks are inserted into the vertebrae at strategic points

Curved rods (titanium or stainless steel) are contoured to the desired spine alignment

Rods are attached to the screws/hooks and gradual correction is applied

Bone graft material (from patient's pelvis or bone bank) is placed to promote fusion

Real-time X-rays confirm proper rod placement and curve correction

Neuromonitoring ensures no spinal cord compression during correction

Final adjustments are made to optimize alignment and balance

Surgical site is thoroughly irrigated with antibiotic solution

Wound is closed in layers with sutures or staples

Sterile dressing is applied and patient is transferred to ICU for monitoring

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery journey

Day 1-3 (ICU/Hospital)

Immediate Post-Operative Care

Patient remains in ICU for 1-2 days with pain management via IV medications. Log-rolling technique used for position changes. Breathing exercises and incentive spirometry to prevent lung complications. Urinary catheter and surgical drains removed within 2-3 days. Early mobilization with physical therapist - sitting at bedside on day 2-3.

Day 4-7 (Hospital)

Initial Mobilization

Patient begins standing and walking short distances with walker and therapist assistance. Back brace (TLSO) is fitted and worn when out of bed. Pain transitions to oral medications. Physical therapy focuses on proper posture and body mechanics. Most patients discharged on day 5-7 with detailed home care instructions.

Week 2-6

Home Recovery & Adaptation

Strict activity restrictions - no bending, twisting, or lifting >5 lbs. Wear back brace when upright (16-20 hours daily). Gradual increase in walking distance. Wound care and monitoring for infection signs. Follow-up X-rays at 2-4 weeks to assess fusion progress. Light activities of daily living resumed with modifications.

Week 7-12

Progressive Rehabilitation

Physical therapy focuses on core strengthening and flexibility. Gradual weaning from back brace as fusion progresses. Return to school or light desk work possible by week 8-10. Swimming and stationary cycling approved. X-rays show early bone fusion. Pain significantly reduced.

Month 4-6

Advanced Recovery

Most patients discontinue brace by month 4-5. Resume most normal activities except contact sports and heavy lifting. Spinal fusion becomes solid (confirmed by X-rays). Return to work or school full-time. Significant improvement in posture and appearance. Minimal pain.

Month 6-12

Complete Fusion & Final Results

Spinal fusion is complete and mature. Maximum curve correction achieved (typically 50-70% improvement). Full return to most activities including non-contact sports. Annual follow-up X-rays to monitor hardware and fusion. Most patients report excellent satisfaction with cosmetic and functional outcomes.

Tips for Faster Recovery

Wear prescribed back brace as directed - crucial for fusion success

Follow strict movement restrictions (no BLT - bending, lifting, twisting) for first 3 months

Maintain excellent nutrition with high protein, calcium, and vitamin D for bone healing

Perform breathing exercises regularly to prevent pneumonia

Sleep on back or side with pillow support - avoid stomach sleeping

Use log-rolling technique when getting in/out of bed

Attend all physical therapy sessions - core strength is essential for long-term success

Take pain medications as prescribed but wean off narcotics within 4-6 weeks

Monitor incision for signs of infection (redness, drainage, fever)

Avoid smoking completely - it severely impairs bone fusion

Stay hydrated and maintain healthy weight

Report any new neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness) immediately

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this procedure

Q1.At what degree of curvature is scoliosis surgery recommended?

Scoliosis surgery is typically recommended when the spinal curve exceeds 40-50 degrees in adolescents or adults, or when the curve is rapidly progressing despite bracing. Curves beyond 50 degrees have a high likelihood of continued progression even after skeletal maturity. Dr. Kumar evaluates each case individually considering curve severity, location, age, symptoms, and impact on quality of life. Non-surgical treatments (bracing, physical therapy) are always tried first for curves under 40 degrees.

Q2.How much will my spine be straightened after surgery?

Most patients achieve 50-70% correction of their original curve. For example, a 60-degree curve typically corrects to 18-30 degrees post-surgery. Complete straightening is not the goal - we aim for balanced alignment that looks cosmetically acceptable and prevents progression. Dr. Kumar uses advanced 3D planning to achieve optimal correction while preserving spine flexibility and balance. The exact correction depends on curve flexibility, bone quality, and fusion technique used.

Q3.How long does scoliosis surgery take and what is the hospital stay?

Scoliosis correction surgery typically takes 4-6 hours depending on curve complexity and number of vertebrae fused. Most patients spend 1-2 days in ICU for monitoring, then transfer to regular ward. Total hospital stay is 5-7 days. During hospitalization, you'll work with physical therapists to learn safe movement techniques, be fitted for a back brace, and receive pain management and wound care.

Q4.Will I need to wear a brace after scoliosis surgery?

Yes, most patients wear a TLSO (thoraco-lumbo-sacral orthosis) back brace for 3-6 months after surgery when upright (not required while sleeping). The brace protects the surgical correction while bone fusion occurs. It provides external support and reminds you to avoid dangerous movements. Dr. Kumar determines brace duration based on fusion progress seen on X-rays. Some patients with excellent fusion may discontinue earlier, while others need it longer.

Q5.What are the risks of scoliosis correction surgery?

Major complications are rare (2-4%) due to advanced surgical techniques and neuromonitoring. Risks include infection (1-2%), neurological injury (<1% - monitored in real-time during surgery), blood loss requiring transfusion (20-30% of cases), implant failure (<2%), and pseudarthrosis or failed fusion (3-5%). Dr. Kumar's extensive experience and use of cutting-edge technology minimize these risks. Most complications, if they occur, are minor and treatable.

Q6.How long does it take to recover from scoliosis surgery?

Recovery is gradual over 6-12 months. You'll walk within 2-3 days after surgery but with restrictions. Return to school or light desk work occurs at 6-10 weeks. Most activities resume at 4-6 months once fusion is solid. Full recovery with complete bone fusion takes 9-12 months. Athletes can return to non-contact sports around 9-12 months. High-contact sports (football, gymnastics) are generally discouraged to protect the fusion.

Q7.How much does scoliosis correction surgery cost in Patna?

Scoliosis correction surgery at Arthoscenter Patna costs approximately ₹4,50,000 - ₹6,50,000 depending on curve complexity, number of levels fused, and implant type. This includes surgery, hospital stay, ICU care, implants (rods, screws), and initial follow-up. Many insurance plans cover scoliosis surgery when medically necessary. We offer payment plans and accept all major insurance including CGHS, ECHS, and Ayushman Bharat. Initial consultation with Dr. Kumar is ₹999.

Q8.Will the metal rods and screws need to be removed later?

No, the spinal instrumentation (rods, screws, hooks) is permanent and does not need removal unless there's a specific problem like infection or hardware failure. Once the bone fusion is solid (9-12 months), the hardware is no longer mechanically necessary but is typically left in place as removal requires another major surgery with risks. The implants are made of biocompatible titanium or stainless steel that won't trigger metal detectors and is safe for MRI scans.

Q9.Will scoliosis surgery affect my height?

Yes! Most patients gain 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) in height after scoliosis correction surgery as the curved spine is straightened. The exact height gain depends on the original curve severity - larger curves provide more height restoration. This is often one of the most satisfying outcomes for patients, along with improved posture and appearance. However, the fused portion of spine will have reduced flexibility.

Q10.Can I participate in sports and physical activities after surgery?

Yes, but with some limitations. After complete recovery (9-12 months), you can participate in most low-impact sports like swimming, cycling, running, yoga, and walking. Golf, tennis, and dancing are generally safe. However, high-contact sports (football, rugby, hockey) and high-impact activities (gymnastics, trampolining, horseback riding) are typically discouraged to protect the spinal fusion. Dr. Kumar provides individualized activity guidelines based on your fusion extent and bone quality.

Considering This Surgery?

Book an online video consultation with Dr. Gurudeo Kumar for just ₹999 and get all your questions answered

Book Consultation Now +91 72580 65424

Arthoscenter