Scoliosis & Kyphosis Surgery
Advanced Spine Deformity Correction by Dr. Alok Gadkari
Understanding Scoliosis
What is Scoliosis?
Types of Scoliosis
Idiopathic Scoliosis – Most common, cause unknown (often in teenagers)
Congenital Scoliosis – Present at birth due to abnormal spinal development
Neuromuscular Scoliosis – Caused by neurological or muscular disorders
Degenerative Scoliosis – Develops in adults due to aging and disc degeneration
Symptoms of Scoliosis
Uneven shoulders or hips
Visible spinal curvature
Rib hump when bending forward
Back pain (more common in adults)
Breathing difficulty in severe cases
Fatigue due to muscle imbalance
Mild scoliosis may not require surgery, but moderate to severe curves (usually more than 40–50 degrees) often need surgical correction to prevent progression.
Understanding Kyphosis
What is Kyphosis?
Kyphosis is an excessive forward curvature of the upper spine, leading to a rounded or hunched back appearance.
While mild kyphosis may be postural, severe cases can cause:
Persistent back pain
Spinal stiffness
Breathing difficulty
Neurological symptoms (in rare cases)
Types of Kyphosis
Postural Kyphosis
Scheuermann’s Kyphosis
Congenital Kyphosis
Age-related (Osteoporotic) Kyphosis
Severe kyphosis (greater than 70–80 degrees) may require surgical correction.
When is Surgery Needed?
Surgery is considered when:
✔ The spinal curve continues to progress
✔ Deformity is severe (>45–50 degrees in scoliosis)
✔ There is persistent back pain
✔ Breathing capacity is affected
✔ Neurological symptoms are present
✔ Cosmetic deformity significantly impacts confidence
✔ Conservative treatment fails
Dr. Alok Gadkari performs detailed clinical and radiological evaluation before recommending surgery.
Goals of Scoliosis & Kyphosis Surgery
The main objectives are:
Correct spinal curvature
Restore proper alignment
Prevent curve progression
Relieve pain
Improve breathing function
Enhance posture and appearance
Improve overall quality of life
Advanced Techniques Used by Dr. Alok Gadkari
Modern spine deformity surgery is far more advanced and safer than before.
1. Spinal Fusion Surgery
The most common procedure for scoliosis and kyphosis correction.
Metal rods, screws, and hooks are placed to straighten the spine
Bone graft is used to fuse vertebrae permanently
Prevents further curve progression
2. Pedicle Screw Instrumentation
Strong fixation using screws placed into vertebrae provides:
Better curve correction
Strong spinal stability
Faster recovery
3. Posterior Spinal Fusion
Surgery performed from the back side of the spine for:
Adolescent scoliosis
Severe kyphosis
Adult deformity
4. Minimally Invasive Techniques (Selected Cases)
Smaller incisions
Reduced blood loss
Faster recovery
Less muscle damage
5. Osteotomy Procedures (Severe Deformities)
In rigid or severe curves, controlled bone cutting procedures help correct spinal alignment.
Dr. Alok Gadkari uses advanced imaging, neuromonitoring, and precision surgical planning to ensure maximum safety.
How the Surgery is Performed
Step 1: Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Detailed physical examination
X-rays and MRI/CT scan
Pulmonary function tests (if needed)
Pre-anesthetic assessment
Step 2: Surgical Procedure
General anesthesia is administered
Spinal implants (rods & screws) are placed
Curve is corrected gradually
Bone graft applied for fusion
Incision closed carefully
Duration: 3–6 hours depending on severity.
Recovery After Surgery
Immediate Post-Operative Period
ICU monitoring (if required)
Pain management
Early mobilization within 1–3 days
Hospital Stay
Typically 4–7 days
First 6 Weeks
Gradual walking
Avoid heavy lifting
Follow physiotherapy guidance
3–6 Months
Return to school/work
Improved posture noticeable
Significant pain reduction
1 Year
Complete bone fusion
Stable corrected spine
Benefits of Scoliosis & Kyphosis Surgery
✔ Significant curve correction
✔ Improved posture and appearance
✔ Reduced back pain
✔ Better lung capacity
✔ Increased confidence
✔ Long-term spinal stability
Modern techniques have greatly improved safety and outcomes.
Scoliosis Surgery in Adolescents
Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is the most common type.
Early surgical correction:
Prevents worsening
Improves spinal balance
Ensures better long-term results
Enhances psychological well-being
Most adolescents resume normal life and sports within months.
Adult Scoliosis Surgery
Adult deformity can be more complex due to:
Degeneration
Osteoporosis
Nerve compression
Chronic pain
Surgical goals include:
Pain relief
Nerve decompression
Balance restoration
Functional improvement
Dr. Gadkari customizes surgery based on age, bone quality, and overall health.
Kyphosis Surgery Outcomes
Kyphosis correction:
Restores upright posture
Reduces mechanical back pain
Prevents spinal cord compression
Improves breathing capacity
Enhances self-confidence
Severe hunchback deformity can be significantly corrected with modern techniques.