Kyphosis Surgery

A normal spine, when viewed from the back, appears straight. In contrast, kyphosis is characterized by an excessive forward curvature of the upper back (thoracic spine), resulting in a rounded or “humpback” appearance. This condition affects the alignment of the vertebrae and can vary in severity, ranging from mild rounding to a more pronounced curve.

The spine consists of three segments with natural curves: the cervical spine (neck), thoracic spine (chest), and lumbar spine (lower back). When viewed from the side, the cervical and lumbar regions form forward C-shaped curves, known as lordosis, while the thoracic spine forms a reverse C-shaped curve called kyphosis. These natural spinal curves are vital for our balance, helping us stand upright and absorb shock as we move. However, if these curves become exaggerated or flattened, it can disrupt posture and make it challenging to maintain an upright stance. The spine is made up of 24 vertebrae, small rectangular bones stacked together. Between each vertebra is an intervertebral disk, which cushions the vertebrae and absorbs shock, helping with movement and flexibility.

Kyphosis can be classified into postural, Scheuermann’s, and congenital types. Postural kyphosis, often linked to poor posture, involves a curvature exceeding 50 degrees but remains flexible and responsive to corrective exercises. Scheuermann’s kyphosis, more rigid in nature, stems from wedge-shaped vertebrae and tends to progress during growth spurts. Congenital kyphosis arises from vertebral malformations present at birth, leading to an outward spinal curve that becomes more apparent as the child grows.

The causes of kyphosis include congenital conditions present at birth and acquired factors like metabolic issues, neuromuscular disorders, or osteogenesis imperfecta, a brittle bone disease causing fractures. Spina bifida can also lead to kyphosis. Scheuermann’s kyphosis, with an unknown cause, results in a forward curve of the vertebrae, mostly in males. Postural kyphosis, linked to slouching rather than structural issues, is the most common form and often seen in adolescents, which can improve with targeted exercises.

The treatment for kyphosis involves an assessment of several factors such as the child’s age, remaining growth potential, the severity of the curvature, and whether back pain is present are carefully evaluated. Kyphosis treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and addressing specific concerns. For pain management, exercises to strengthen the core muscles and medications are commonly recommended. For those primarily worried about the appearance of the curvature, options like bracing or targeted postural exercises can help improve alignment and confidence.

Kyphosis treatment is typically recommended for individuals who exhibit noticeable symptoms like rounded shoulders, a visible hump on the back, and mild back pain. Other signs include fatigue, stiffness in the spine, and tightness in the hamstring muscles. The condition often leads to uneven shoulders, a forward-tilting head, and misaligned shoulder blades. . When bending forward, the upper back may look more elevated than normal, and tightness in the hamstring muscles often accompanies the condition. While back pain might occur, it’s rarely severe enough to disrupt everyday activities. Parents or friends may notice and describe the posture as a “humpback” or “hunchback” and frequently refer to the child’s “poor posture,” which is often the first indicator that kyphosis is present.

For adolescents experiencing severe kyphosis accompanied by pain or appearance concerns, posterior spinal fusion with instrumentation may be recommended. Kyphosis surgery involves making an incision along the middle of the back, exposing the spinal bones and muscles, and correcting the curvature. This surgical procedure is performed under regional anaesthesia and typically lasts 4-5 hours.

Recovery from kyphosis treatment requires patience and commitment to the prescribed aftercare plan. Initially, patients may experience some discomfort or stiffness, but with appropriate pain management and rest, this typically subsides over time. The spine must heal gradually, with physical therapy designed to improve flexibility, strength, and posture.

The road to full recovery varies depending on the severity of the condition, but most patients can expect to regain normal function after several months, provided they follow their doctor’s guidance and attend all follow-up appointments.

• Immediate postoperative care involves closely monitoring neurological function and wound healing.
• Patients are usually required to wear a brace for 6 to 12 weeks, which helps stabilize the spine while the fusion process occurs.
• Physical therapy is introduced as healing progresses, focusing on strengthening the back muscles, improving posture, and increasing the range of motion.
• This therapy is tailored to each patient’s healing progress, ensuring that the body is gradually prepared for more activity while the fusion solidifies.
• At Prospero Medical, we follow up with patients regularly for up to 6 months to 1 year after surgery. During this time, if patients experience any issues or complications, it is crucial that they report them directly to our clinic. Timely communication with us ensures that any necessary adjustments or interventions can be made before seeking advice from third-party specialists, guaranteeing a smoother and safer recovery process.

Not only is Turkey one of the top-performing countries in a wide range of medical specialties, but it is also renowned for its rich historical heritage and warm hospitality. This combination makes Turkey a unique destination for various medical treatments. Undergoing kyphosis surgery in Turkey offers many benefits, some of which may even surpass the advantages of having the same procedure privately in one’s home country. These benefits include:

• Exceptional medical expertise backed by well-established scholarship and experience.
• State-of-the-art private hospitals equipped with high-precision technology.
• Tailored after-care infused with the renowned warmth of Turkish hospitality.
• Competitive pricing that offers excellent value for money.
• A conducive environment for recovery, where orthopedic treatment can be complemented by physiotherapy sessions to expedite the healing process.

Choosing the right clinic for your child’s kyphosis surgery is a critical decision, and it can be challenging amidst a sea of commercial advertisements and social media promotions. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. So, what should guide your decision when shortlisting clinics?

The key criteria to consider are:

• Honest medical advice, free from any commercial interests.
  • A genuine effort to build a strong rapport with the patient, ensuring that their concerns are understood and expectations are properly managed.
  • Prioritizing patient well-being and safety above all else.

A realistic price estimation for the treatment should be based on a careful assessment of the following factors:

• The professional reputation of the clinic.
  • The nature of the procedure and its associated complexities.
  • The qualifications of the surgeon and the overall quality of after-care services.
  • Transparent terms and conditions where clinical liabilities are clearly defined in a neutral, legal framework.

Prices for kyphosis treatment in Turkey can vary based on the factors mentioned above. While cost may be a compelling reason to consider treatment abroad, focusing solely on price without evaluating the clinic’s ability to meet these core criteria could lead to significant problems and ultimately prove costly. At Prospero Medical, we adopt a transparent pricing policy, clearly outlining each service component to ensure patients make informed decisions. Our aim is to provide realistic pricing that reflects the level of medical service, the expertise of our surgeons, and the quality of after-care we deliver at our clinics in Turkey. We are committed to offering high-quality, professional medical services at the best possible value.