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| Scoliosis |
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| Care
And Treatment For Scoliosis |
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| Scoliosis can be mild, moderate or severe. The treatment
include one or a combination of the following: |
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Observation. |
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Bracing. |
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Surgery. |
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| Observation |
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| The non-operative treatment of scoliosis
involves observing the deformity with regular examinations & follow-up
x-rays. Curves that are between 20 to 30 degrees can be observed at
4 to 6 months intervals. Any curve over 30 degrees in a growing child
will need treatment. A brace may be used in combination for progressing
curves, or curves over 30 degrees |
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| Bracing |
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| Bracing is designed to stop the progression
of the spinal curve, but it does not reduce the amount of angulation
already present. Thoraco-lumbar-sacral orthosis (TLSO) is one of the
more commonly used scoliosis braces. |
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| Surgery |
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| Surgery is only recommended for patients
with curves that are greater than 40 degrees and those with further
progression. Observation or bracing will always be used as a first
attempt to control curve progression. |
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| Surgical treatment of scoliosis may be indicated
for any of the following reasons: |
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To prevent further progression
of the curve. |
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To control the curve when brace
treatment has failed. |
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To improve an undesired cosmetic
appearance. |
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For reasons of discomfort or postural
fatigue. |
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| The most common surgical treatment for scoliosis
is a spinal fusion using special stainless steel/titanium rods, hooks,
screws & bone graft to carefully straighten the curved portion
of the spine. |
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