OPERENYA MEDICAL TOURISM

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Scoliosis Treatment in India

Advanced treatment options for scoliosis with world-class spine surgeons, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive care at a fraction of international costs.

95%+
Success Rate
70%
Cost Savings
Scoliosis Treatment in India

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. While a normal spine appears straight when viewed from behind, a spine affected by scoliosis shows a sideways curvature, typically in an "S" or "C" shape.

This condition most commonly develops during the growth spurt just before puberty, between the ages of 10 and 15. However, it can also occur in younger children or adults due to various causes.

Scoliosis ranges in severity from mild to severe. Mild cases may only require monitoring, while more severe cases may need bracing or surgical intervention to prevent the curve from worsening and to address complications.

Scoliosis Spine Comparison

Types and Causes of Scoliosis

Idiopathic Scoliosis

The most common type (80% of cases), with no specific identifiable cause. It's further classified by age of onset: infantile, juvenile, adolescent, and adult.

Congenital Scoliosis

Results from abnormally formed vertebrae present at birth. The spine may have missing portions, partial formation, or lack of separation of vertebrae.

Neuromuscular Scoliosis

Develops as a secondary symptom of another condition that affects the nerves and muscles, such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or muscular dystrophy.

Degenerative Scoliosis

Occurs in older adults due to degenerative changes in the spine, often related to osteoporosis, degenerative disc disease, or previous back surgery.

Syndromic Scoliosis

Develops as part of a syndrome or genetic disorder such as Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, or Down syndrome.

Traumatic Scoliosis

Results from an injury or trauma to the spine, or from surgical procedures that affect spinal alignment.

Symptoms of Scoliosis

Scoliosis Symptoms
  • Uneven shoulders: One shoulder may appear higher than the other.

  • Prominent shoulder blade: One shoulder blade may stick out more than the other.

  • Uneven waist: The waist may appear asymmetrical.

  • Elevated hips: One hip may be higher or more prominent than the other.

  • Body leaning: The entire body may lean to one side.

  • Rib prominence: In more severe cases, the ribs on one side may stick out more when bending forward.

  • Back pain: Some patients, particularly adults, may experience back pain.

Treatment Options for Scoliosis

The treatment approach for scoliosis depends on several factors, including the patient's age, the severity of the curve, the risk of progression, and the type of scoliosis. Our specialists in India offer a comprehensive range of treatment options:

Observation

For mild curves (less than 25 degrees) or in patients who have almost completed their growth, regular monitoring with X-rays every 4-6 months may be recommended to check if the curve is progressing.

This approach is non-invasive and appropriate for curves that pose little risk of progression or health complications.

Bracing

For moderate curves (25-40 degrees) in growing children, bracing may be recommended to prevent further progression of the curve. Modern braces are designed to be less visible under clothing.

Types include the Boston brace, Milwaukee brace, and Charleston bending brace. The effectiveness depends on consistent wear as prescribed.

Physical Therapy

Specific exercises can help improve posture, strengthen core muscles, and enhance flexibility. Methods like the Schroth technique are specifically designed for scoliosis patients.

While physical therapy alone cannot correct the curve, it can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life, especially when combined with other treatments.

Traditional Surgery

For severe curves (greater than 45-50 degrees) or curves that continue to progress despite bracing, surgical intervention may be necessary. The most common procedure is spinal fusion.

During spinal fusion, vertebrae are fused together using bone grafts, rods, and screws to straighten the spine and prevent further progression.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Advanced techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) allow for smaller incisions, less muscle damage, reduced blood loss, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

These techniques are particularly beneficial for certain types of curves and patient profiles.

Growth-Friendly Procedures

For young children with severe scoliosis, growth-friendly procedures like growing rods or MAGEC (magnetically controlled growing rods) allow for spine correction while accommodating continued growth.

These innovative techniques require periodic adjustments as the child grows, either through minor surgical procedures or non-invasive external adjustments.

Why Choose India for Scoliosis Treatment?

  • World-Class Spine Surgeons: India has some of the best spine surgeons in the world, many of whom have trained at prestigious international institutions and have decades of experience in treating complex scoliosis cases.

  • Advanced Technology: Leading hospitals in India are equipped with state-of-the-art technology for scoliosis treatment, including 3D imaging, navigation systems, intraoperative neuromonitoring, and robotic assistance.

  • Multidisciplinary Approach: Treatment involves a team of specialists including orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, physiotherapists, and rehabilitation experts working together to provide comprehensive care.

  • Minimal Waiting Time: Unlike many Western countries where patients may wait months for specialized procedures, hospitals in India offer quick scheduling and immediate attention.

Cost Comparison

USA

$80,000 - $150,000

Average cost for scoliosis surgery

UK

$40,000 - $80,000

Average cost for scoliosis surgery

India

$12,000 - $25,000

Average cost for scoliosis surgery

Save up to 70-80%

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Scoliosis Rehabilitation

Recovery from scoliosis surgery typically involves several phases:

  • Hospital Stay: Typically 5-7 days, during which pain management, wound care, and initial mobilization are addressed.

  • Early Recovery (1-6 weeks): Limited activities, walking, basic self-care, and beginning of gentle physical therapy.

  • Intermediate Recovery (6 weeks - 6 months): Gradual increase in activities, more intensive physical therapy, and return to school or sedentary work.

  • Long-term Recovery (6-12 months): Return to most normal activities, including non-contact sports and more physically demanding tasks.

Our hospitals in India offer comprehensive rehabilitation programs tailored to each patient's needs, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management services to ensure optimal recovery and functional outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that most often occurs during the growth spurt just before puberty. While scoliosis can be caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, the cause of most scoliosis is unknown.

What are the symptoms of scoliosis?

Signs and symptoms of scoliosis may include uneven shoulders, one shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other, uneven waist, one hip higher than the other, and the body leaning to one side. In more severe cases, the spine can rotate or twist, causing the ribs on one side of the body to stick out farther than on the other side.

How is scoliosis diagnosed?

Scoliosis is diagnosed through physical examination, neurological tests, and imaging tests such as X-rays, spinal MRI, or CT scan. The Cobb angle measurement from X-rays helps determine the severity of the curve.

What treatments are available for scoliosis in India?

Treatment options in India include observation for mild cases, bracing for moderate cases to prevent progression, and surgical intervention for severe cases. Surgical options include traditional open surgery and minimally invasive techniques. The specific treatment depends on the patient's age, severity of the curve, and risk of progression.

What is the recovery time after scoliosis surgery?

Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery performed. Most patients can walk within 1-3 days after surgery and return to school or sedentary work within 2-4 weeks. Full recovery and return to all activities typically takes 6-12 months. Physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process.

Is scoliosis treatment in India safe for international patients?

Yes, India has several JCI-accredited hospitals with state-of-the-art facilities and internationally trained spine surgeons who specialize in scoliosis treatment. These hospitals follow international protocols for patient safety and have high success rates comparable to Western medical centers.

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