What is scoliosis and deformity correction?
Scoliosis and deformity correction is surgery to improve and stabilize a significant abnormal curve of the spine - a sideways curve (scoliosis) or an excessive forward rounding (kyphosis). The aim is not usually to make the spine perfectly straight, but to reduce the curve, restore better balance, ease pain or nerve symptoms, and stop a curve that is getting worse. It is considered when the curve is large or progressing, or when it presses on nerves, and when non-surgical measures are not enough.
What happens during the procedure
The operation is carried out under general anesthesia and is one of the larger spine procedures. The surgeon gradually realigns the spine and holds the correction with a construct of screws, rods, and sometimes hooks, then places bone graft so the corrected segments fuse into a stable position over the following months. Nerve monitoring is used throughout to help protect the spinal cord and nerves during the correction. Most curves are approached from the back; in selected cases a lateral or combined approach, sometimes less invasive, may be used depending on the shape and cause of the curve.
Benefits and considerations
The operation aims to improve spinal balance, reduce the curve and prevent further progression. The amount of correction and change in symptoms varies. Risks include blood loss, infection, non-union, hardware problems and nerve or spinal-cord injury. Fusing part of the spine reduces flexibility in that area, and bone health and smoking can affect fusion. A second opinion can review the goals, proposed levels and alternatives.
Recovery and what to expect
Mobility and rehabilitation are introduced when it is safe. Hospital stay and return to activity depend on the extent of correction, your health and early recovery. Follow-up imaging is used to monitor alignment and fusion. Your team will provide an individual plan for wound care, work or study, lifting and rehabilitation. A second opinion can review the goals, proposed extent of correction and alternatives.
How we approach your care
- 01
Find the true source
We begin with a thorough history and examination, supported by imaging where appropriate, to pinpoint the precise source of the problem.
- 02
Consider appropriate options
Where clinically appropriate, we consider established non-surgical options before surgery. The plan depends on the diagnosis, symptoms, health and priorities of the individual patient.
- 03
A plan built around you
Every step is explained clearly, so you always understand your options and what comes next.
This may help if
- A significant or progressing curve is confirmed on X-ray or scan
- The curve causes pain, nerve symptoms, or affects balance and daily life
- Bracing or non-surgical care is not enough for the size of the curve
- Your general health makes you suitable for a larger operation
Suitability can only be assessed after reviewing your symptoms, examination, relevant imaging and previous treatment.
Common questions
What is scoliosis and deformity correction surgery?
It is surgery to improve and stabilize a significant abnormal curve of the spine - a sideways curve (scoliosis) or excessive forward rounding (kyphosis). The aim is to reduce the curve, restore better balance, ease pain or nerve symptoms, and stop a curve that is getting worse. It is considered when the curve is large or progressing and non-surgical measures are not enough.
How much can the curve be corrected?
The goal is usually a better-balanced spine rather than a perfectly straight one. Surgery can often reduce a curve meaningfully and hold it in a more stable position, though how much correction is possible depends on the size, flexibility, and cause of the curve, and on your bone quality. Your surgeon will give you a realistic picture for your case.
How is the surgery done?
Under general anesthesia, the surgeon gradually realigns the spine and holds the correction with screws, rods, and sometimes hooks, then places bone graft so the corrected segments fuse over the following months. Nerve monitoring is used throughout to help protect the spinal cord and nerves. Most curves are approached from the back; some cases use a lateral or combined approach.
Is minimally invasive scoliosis surgery possible?
In selected cases, yes. For certain curves - particularly some degenerative curves in adults - a lateral or less invasive approach with smaller incisions may be an option, which can reduce muscle disruption and blood loss. Whether it suits you depends on the shape, size, and cause of the curve. Your surgeon will explain which approach fits your situation.
Should I get a second opinion before deformity surgery?
Yes - this is a significant decision and a large operation, so taking time for an independent opinion is entirely reasonable. A review of your X-rays and scans can confirm whether surgery is the right step, how much correction is realistic, and whether a less extensive option is possible. Bring your imaging and we will give you a calm, honest view.
How long is recovery after scoliosis surgery?
Length of stay and return to activity depend on the extent of correction, your health and early recovery. The fusion is monitored over time. Your team will provide an individual plan for mobility, work or study, lifting and rehabilitation.