Treatment and diagnostics for abroad

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. In scoliosis, the spine deviates to the side and can take the shape of the letter S, Z, or C. Externally, this is manifested by the fact that the shoulder, side of the chest, or lower back becomes higher than the other symmetrical part. There are several types of scoliosis classified by age or cause of the disease, including: congenital, acquired, idiopathic (most common in children aged 11-16 years), neuromuscular, adult, and others.

Diagnosis and treatment of scoliosis abroad

Scoliosis is usually detected during a physical examination. The official diagnosis is based on X-ray confirmation of abnormal lateral curvature. If spinal cord problems are suspected, an MRI scan is performed.

If the curvature of the spine is less than 40 degrees, non-surgical treatment is recommended. The patient is prescribed physical therapy, wearing a corset or braces system, and is taught special exercises. In degenerative lumbar scoliosis, injections of epidural steroids may be useful. Surgery is recommended for children and adults with severe spinal curvature (45-50° or more) to stop the progression of the curvature.

The standard surgery for scoliosis is the fusion of curved vertebrae through a large incision. Abroad, scoliosis treatment is carried out in a less invasive way.

Minimally invasive treatment of scoliosis abroad

During minimally invasive surgery, the surgeon makes several small holes along the back. Then he inserts a special device, a tubular retractor. This allows you to reach the spine without cutting the muscles, but simply pushing them away. To straighten the spine, rods and screws are attached to it. A special microscope and real-time X-ray images are used to ensure accurate actions.

Advanced technologies for the treatment of scoliosis abroad

In clinics in Israel and Germany, children with a curvature of more than 40° can undergo the new ApiFix procedure. In the case of standard surgery, the spine is aligned using 16-20 screws. The ApiFix system includes a small rod with 2 screws that are inserted as part of a minimally invasive operation. This allows you to maintain the normal flexibility of the child's back.

The curvature itself is adjusted gradually over several months so as not to damage the soft tissues. The alignment process is started with the help of special exercises. The ratchet mechanism of the system captures each stage of correction and moves only in one direction. The ApiFix procedure is suitable for teenagers aged 10-18 years.

Another unique technology available for the treatment of scoliosis abroad is the Magec magnetic system. A common correction operation involves inserting a rod into the spine, which needs to be replaced as the patient grows. At least ten invasive surgeries are required in a few years. The Magec system allows you to install the rod once and extend it using the remote control. When it is necessary to change the parameters of the rod, the doctor simply acts on its magnetic mechanism remotely. As a result, the device is lengthened without additional surgery.