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Pediatric Spinal Surgery

Paediatric Spinal Surgeries

Pediatric Spinal Surgery in Mukundapur

The evolution of Spinal Surgery in children followed that of general Spinal Surgery, owing primarily to advances in anaesthesia and post-operative care. Spinal abnormalities in children and adolescents were initially treated non-operatively for a long period using external adjustments such as tractions, casts, and braces. Tumours in children undergoing Spinal Surgery are uncommon, although vascular disease of the spine (e.g., AVMs) is rare. Disc disease is rare in youngsters, but it can occur in teens. The most frequent spinal cord illnesses requiring surgery are neural tube abnormalities and their associated conditions, which include tethered cord, diastematomyelia, and syringomyelia. As well as for paediatric spines and even extremely small juvenile vertebrae, specifically constructed laminar hooks and pedicle screws are specially designed to fit properly and can be used for localised repair of a congenital abnormality, for example, or for long-term use.

Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, has an advanced spine care centre dedicated to Paediatric Spine Surgeries, providing high-priority care and treatment by a team of experienced doctors trained in child care.

FAQ's

There are multiple medical treatments and operations for spine diseases that provide next-generation care to infants, children, and adolescents. The main purpose of children's spine surgery is to treat paediatric spine issues and abnormalities. This will ensure that the children are properly treated for their spinal problems. 

The various types of spine issues that require surgery are listed below.

  • Scoliosis: This occurs when the spine curves rapidly during skeletal growth in youngsters. If the spine is fused at a young age, the child's lungs will continue to grow. This condition needs medical attention whenever it is detected, as it is linked to the spine and indirectly correlates with crucial body functions. This increases the risk that a deformity in the front of the chest, known as "crank-shaft deformity," will continue to grow and spin while the back remains fused. In such cases, a limited fusion with instrumentation is inserted along the spine to direct its expansion.

  • Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis: Spondylosis is a spine fracture that is commonly detected in high-level athletes. This problem may proceed to spondylolisthesis, which occurs when one vertebra begins to move forward on the other.

  • Kyphosis: This is commonly referred to as a hunchback, which is characterised by an abnormal curvature of your upper spine. The upper back is supposed to have a tiny natural curve; if you have this condition, you will have a noticeable hump on your upper back. This type of spinal condition causes excessive pressure on the spine, which causes pain.

  • Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine typically observed in late childhood or adolescence. Instead of growing straight, the spine extends with a side-to-side curve in the shape of an extended "S" or "C." This condition commonly arises during an adolescent growth spurt, when youngsters grow rapidly. In most cases, the aberrant spinal curve remains stable, but in other children, it progresses. For unexplained causes, severe and progressive curves appear more commonly in girls than in boys.

Your child's doctor will assess their condition using multiple physical exams, imaging investigations (such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans), and maybe other diagnostic testing. If conservative treatments like physical therapy or bracing have proven inadequate for managing your child's spinal issue, Spinal Surgery is the solution.

Once you are done with the surgery, the actual care and follow-up start. Follow-up care is a vital component of the recovery process following Paediatric Spinal Surgery. Our experienced team will monitor your child’s development, handle any post-operative problems, and provide advice on rehabilitation and long-term management of their spinal issue.

Paediatric Spinal Surgery has risks such as

  • Infection, like any other surgery
  • Haemorrhage
  • Nerve damage
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Anaesthesia-related problems. 

The specific risks vary depending on the type of surgery, the child's age and health, and the surgical team's expertise.

Pain management is a critical component of postoperative treatment for any surgery, especially for paediatric Spinal Surgery patients. Our child's healthcare team will create a pain management plan or strategy that is specific to the surgery and your child's medical condition, which may include drugs, nerve blocks, and other treatments for reducing discomfort.

The time frame for returning to normal activities varies based on the type of surgery and the child's treatment. While some children can gradually resume activities a few weeks to months after surgery, others may need more time for rehabilitation and physical therapy.

Before the surgery or following the surgery If you have any concerns or questions about your child's Spinal Surgery, please contact our healthcare practitioner or the surgical team. They may provide information, answer your concerns, and offer advice throughout the treatment process, ensuring the best possible outcome for your child.

Dealing with the emotional implications of Spinal Surgery can be very difficult for young people. You can help them in the following ways:

  • Providing reassurance

  • Listening to their worries

  • Explaining the operation and recovery process in an age-appropriate manner can help to reduce worry

  • Encouraging your child to express their emotions and including them in decision-making as much as possible will help them feel empowered and resilient

Some paediatric spine problems may necessitate continuing monitoring and even additional procedures as the child grows. This is especially true for diseases like scoliosis, which can develop over time. Our child's healthcare team can offer advice on long-term management.

Mostly after the Spinal Surgery, children can gradually resume sports and physical activities, though the timing and intensity of the activity will vary depending on the type of surgery performed and the child's recuperation. It is critical to follow the advice of our child's healthcare team and avoid activities that may cause excessive strain on the spine.