Questions You May Have About Scoliosis Surgery

Scoliosis surgery is performed by realigning curved vertebrae as much as possible and fusing them in their new and improved alignment. After the operation, instead of having curved, separate vertebrae you will have a straighter section containing multiple vertebrae that make up a solid piece. Your spine will still move normally in the areas above and below the fusion, so you should still be able to do all of the things you did before the surgery once you have completely healed.

If you are facing spine deformity surgery for scoliosis, you may be looking for the answers to the following questions:

Will you be able to bring anything with you to the hospital?

You may be concerned that you won't have anything to do that can help you keep your mind off the surgery beforehand or which could help you relax after your surgery. The good news is that you can bring such things with you. Some popular options are crosswords or word-search books, playing cards, books for reading, your tablet, your phone, or any other pastime or hobby that you can fit in a bag.

What should you do right before your surgery?

Take a shower before you head to the hospital. Doing so will help you feel more comfortable after the surgery. You will also have to wait a few days after the surgery before you can shower again, so showering just before your surgery can be a good way to maintain your cleanliness during your recovery period. 

Follow all pre-op instructions that you get from your surgeon beforehand. Make sure you read them carefully and use them as a checklist during the days before your surgery. Some common pre-op instructions that you may need to follow are fasting and stopping taking some medications a few days or 24 hours before the surgery. They may also have some medicines they want you to start taking ahead of time that can help with the healing process. If you have any questions about your pre-op instructions, call the hospital for clarification. 

You should also avoid being around anyone who seems like they might be sick or starting to get sick. Even if someone believes they are only experiencing allergy symptoms, it's best for you to be careful because you don't want to get sick before your surgery, which would require postponing it, or during your recovery period. 

Will you still need a brace?

If you had to wear a brace before surgery, then you may be wondering if you will still have to wear it after the surgery. While situations vary, the good news is that most people who wore a brace before this kind of surgery didn't have to wear one after their surgery. 

Will you need physical therapy?

You will most likely receive treatment from a physical therapist after your surgery. Their job is to help you regain mobility, and may give you exercises to perform regularly. Once you are home, you will be encouraged to walk daily, but you most likely won't have to go back for more physical therapy.


Share