Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is a common form of treatment for severe scoliosis. During the surgery, an orthopedic surgeon makes an incision to expose the spine. The surgeon can make the incision from the back (a posterior approach) or from the side (an anterior approach). Two titanium rods are attached to the spine by screws. The rods attach directly to the vertebrae, and they are meant to support the spine and keep it straight. The surgery usually takes four to six hours, but in severe cases, it can take up to ten.
After the surgery, it takes up to six weeks, and possibly longer in some cases, for the spine to fuse into its new position. In the meantime, you can do physical rehab to strengthen your back safely. Full recovery from the surgery takes three to six months.
On the right is an example of a spine with scoliosis that was corrected by spinal fusion. You can see the two metal rods on both sides of the spine holding the spine straight and in place.
