What Is Scoliosis Surgery?
Table of Contents
- What Is Scoliosis?
- Types of Scoliosis
- What Are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?
- Scoliosis Treatment Methods
- Why Is Scoliosis Surgery Performed?
- How Is Scoliosis Surgery Performed?
- Preoperative Process
- Postoperative Process
- Risks of Scoliosis Surgery
- Advantages of Scoliosis Surgery
- Who Should Undergo Scoliosis Surgery?
- Life After Scoliosis Surgery
- Choosing a Specialist for Scoliosis Surgery
Scoliosis is a spinal deformity characterized by a sideways curvature of the spine. This condition should not be regarded merely as an aesthetic problem but also as a serious health issue that can affect respiratory function in advanced cases. Particularly in severe curvatures, surgical intervention becomes unavoidable. At this point, scoliosis surgery is an important treatment method performed to improve the patient's quality of life and restore the balanced structure of the spine.
Patients who wish to obtain detailed information about scoliosis surgery generally consult physicians who specialize in this field. One of the specialists performing this surgery is Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı, who is recognized for his modern surgical techniques and patient-centered approach. Experience is of great importance in the decision-making and implementation process of scoliosis surgery.
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What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves into an S or C shape instead of remaining straight. This curvature is usually detected during adolescence, although congenital forms and forms that develop during adulthood also exist. As the degree of curvature increases, problems related to both appearance and health may occur.
Types of Scoliosis
Scoliosis may occur due to different causes. The most common types are:
Idiopathic Scoliosis: The most common type of scoliosis, with no known cause. It usually develops during adolescence.
Congenital Scoliosis: Develops due to spinal abnormalities present at birth.
Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Occurs as a result of muscle and nerve disorders.
Degenerative Scoliosis: Develops in older adults due to wear and tear of the spine.
Each of these types requires a different treatment approach. In advanced cases, surgical treatment becomes necessary, and the evaluation of specialists such as Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı is of great importance.
What Are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?
Scoliosis may not always cause symptoms in its early stages. However, over time, certain physical changes may become noticeable.
Physical Symptoms
- Uneven shoulders
- Difference in hip level
- A prominence on one side of the back
- Waist asymmetry
Advanced Symptoms
- Back and lower back pain
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling of fatigue
When these symptoms are observed, it is important to consult a specialist without delay. Early diagnosis can reduce the need for surgery. However, when surgery is required, the evaluation of an experienced surgeon such as Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı plays a critical role.
Scoliosis Treatment Methods
The goal of scoliosis treatment is to stop the progression of the spinal curvature and, whenever possible, correct it. The treatment method is determined according to the degree of curvature, the patient's age, and overall health condition.
Observation and Follow-up: Regular monitoring may be sufficient for mild curvatures.
Brace Treatment: It is used especially in growing children to prevent the progression of the curvature.
Physical Therapy and Exercise: Applied to strengthen the muscles and improve posture.
Surgical Treatment: Preferred in advanced cases of scoliosis. At this point, scoliosis surgery becomes necessary and requires specialized expertise.
Specialists such as Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı play an important role throughout the treatment process.
Why Is Scoliosis Surgery Performed?
Scoliosis surgery is generally recommended in the following situations:
- When the spinal curvature exceeds 40–50 degrees
- When the curvature progresses rapidly
- When respiratory and cardiac functions are affected
- When severe pain and reduced quality of life occur
With surgical intervention, the spine is corrected, stabilized, and further progression of the deformity is prevented. The surgeon's experience is extremely important during this process. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı is among the specialists performing scoliosis surgery.
How Is Scoliosis Surgery Performed?
Scoliosis surgery is generally performed under general anesthesia. The duration of the operation may vary depending on the patient's condition.
Spinal Fusion: This is the most commonly used technique. The curved vertebrae are corrected and stabilized using metal rods and screws.
Minimally Invasive Techniques: These are modern surgical techniques performed through smaller incisions. The recovery period is generally faster.
Robotic Surgery: With advances in technology, robot-assisted surgical procedures are also being performed.
The choice of technique is determined according to the patient's condition. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı develops a personalized treatment plan by selecting the most appropriate surgical method for each patient.
Preoperative Process
Before scoliosis surgery, a comprehensive evaluation is performed.
- X-ray
- MRI imaging
- Blood tests
The surgical procedure is explained to the patient in detail. The potential risks and expected outcomes are carefully discussed. During this stage, Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı provides thorough information and manages the process transparently.
Postoperative Process
The postoperative period is extremely important for the success of the treatment.
Length of Hospital Stay: It generally ranges from 3 to 7 days.
Pain Management: Pain is controlled with medication.
Physical Activity: Patients usually begin walking after a certain period. Full recovery may take several months.
Rehabilitation: The physical therapy process helps patients return to their normal lives more quickly.
Regular follow-up visits are of great importance during this period. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı closely monitors his patients throughout the postoperative recovery process.
Risks of Scoliosis Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, scoliosis surgery carries certain risks.
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Implant-related complications
However, these risks can be minimized when the surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon. For this reason, working with a specialist such as Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı provides a significant advantage.
Advantages of Scoliosis Surgery
When performed on the right patient using the appropriate technique, scoliosis surgery offers many benefits.
- Correction of spinal deformity
- Improved physical appearance
- Reduced pain
- Improved respiratory function
- Enhanced quality of life
These benefits demonstrate the importance of surgical treatment. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı performs successful operations with the goal of improving his patients' quality of life.
Who Should Undergo Scoliosis Surgery?
Not every patient with scoliosis requires surgery. The decision to perform surgery is based on the following criteria:
- Degree of spinal curvature
- Patient's age
- Rate of progression of the curvature
- Overall health condition
This decision should always be made by a qualified specialist. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı carefully evaluates each patient to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Life After Scoliosis Surgery
After surgery, patients can generally return to their normal daily lives. However, certain precautions should be taken.
- Avoid heavy lifting
- Exercise regularly
- Do not miss follow-up appointments
Following the doctor's recommendations during this period is extremely important. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı provides comprehensive guidance to his patients regarding life after surgery.
Choosing a Specialist for Scoliosis Surgery
Scoliosis surgery is a highly specialized field that requires advanced expertise. Therefore, choosing the right surgeon is of vital importance.
The following criteria should be considered:
- Experience
- Success rate
- Patient satisfaction
- Surgical techniques used
One of the specialists in this field in Türkiye, Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı is recognized as a trusted choice for scoliosis surgery.
Scoliosis surgery offers an effective and long-lasting solution for advanced spinal curvatures. With proper patient selection, the right surgical technique, and an experienced surgeon, successful outcomes can be achieved. At this point, Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı follows a patient-centered approach in scoliosis treatment.
Individuals who suspect they may have scoliosis should consult a specialist at an early stage to improve the chances of successful treatment. For patients who require surgery, choosing the right surgeon is the key to a healthier future.
Contact and appointment
You can book an appointment with Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı, call or write on WhatsApp.