What to ask about surgery

Sometimes surgery is suggested to correct the curves of scoliosis. To help decide whether that would be the best option, the U.S. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases suggests that people first seek answers to a number of questions:

• What are the benefits from surgery for scoliosis?
• What are the risks from this surgery?
• What techniques will be used for the surgery?
• What devices will be used to keep the spine stable after surgery?
• Where will the incisions be made?
• How straight will the spine be after surgery?
• How long will the hospital stay be?
• How long will it take to recover from surgery?
• Is there chronic back pain after surgery for scoliosis?
• Will growth be limited?
• How flexible will the spine remain?
• Can the curve worsen or progress after surgery?
• Will additional surgery be needed?
• Will the patient be able to do all the things he or she wants to do after the surgery?