Idiopathic or Adolescent Scoliosis
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description
Idiopathic scoliosis, particularly adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), is a spinal condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. Unlike other forms of scoliosis, idiopathic scoliosis has no specific underlying cause, hence the term "idiopathic." AIS typically manifests in children between the ages of 10 and 18 and represents the most common form of scoliosis, accounting for about 80% of all cases. In many instances, the curvature progresses as the child grows, leading to potential complications such as pain, reduced lung capacity, and in severe cases, a noticeable deformity.
Treatment for idiopathic scoliosis depends on the severity of the curve and the patient’s age. For milder curves, non-surgical methods like bracing and physical therapy can be effective in preventing progression. However, for more severe curvatures, surgical intervention may be required. The main surgical procedure for treating AIS is spinal fusion. During this procedure, a surgeon fuses two or more of the vertebrae together using bone grafts, rods, and screws. The goal is to correct the curve as much as possible while stabilizing the spine to prevent further progression.
Spinal fusion surgery involves making incisions along the back, exposing the affected vertebrae, and placing bone grafts between them. Metal rods and screws are then used to hold the spine in its corrected position. Over time, the bone grafts and vertebrae fuse, forming a single solid bone. The surgery aims to restore spinal alignment, alleviate pain, and improve the patient’s quality of life.
Procedure Duration
The duration of spinal fusion surgery for idiopathic scoliosis varies based on the severity of the curve and the number of vertebrae being fused. Typically, the procedure takes between 4 to 8 hours. The surgical team may perform the procedure using either a posterior approach (from the back) or an anterior approach (from the front or side). The posterior approach is more commonly used as it allows for easier access to the spine and provides excellent results.
Following the surgery, the patient is usually monitored in a recovery room before being transferred to an intensive care unit (ICU) or specialized spine ward. The initial recovery period in the hospital can last anywhere from 4 to 7 days, depending on the patient's condition and response to surgery. Pain management is a crucial part of the recovery, and patients are typically given medications to minimize discomfort and facilitate movement.
The overall recovery process from spinal fusion for scoliosis can span several months. During the first few weeks post-surgery, patients may need to limit their activities, such as bending, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in sports. Physical therapy is often introduced in the weeks following surgery to improve mobility and support proper posture. Full recovery can take up to 6 months to a year, during which time the fused vertebrae solidify, and the spine gains stability.
Benefits
- Correction of Spinal Deformity: Spinal fusion surgery effectively reduces the curvature of the spine, leading to improved posture and physical appearance.
- Prevention of Curve Progression: By fusing the affected vertebrae, the surgery prevents further progression of the scoliosis, which can otherwise lead to pain and functional limitations.
- Pain Relief: In cases where scoliosis causes back pain or discomfort, surgical correction often provides significant pain relief.
- Improved Respiratory Function: Severe spinal curves can impact lung function, and surgery can alleviate such complications by restoring normal chest space.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients often experience improved self-esteem, greater physical activity tolerance, and an overall better quality of life following successful surgical treatment.
Potential Destinations
- Germany: Renowned for its advanced medical technologies and highly skilled orthopedic surgeons, Germany is an excellent destination for spinal fusion surgery. The country’s healthcare system is well-developed, and medical tourists can expect world-class care and efficient recovery protocols.
- South Korea: South Korea has emerged as a leader in spine surgery, offering modern facilities and experienced spine specialists. Many hospitals in the country cater to international patients, providing comprehensive support from pre-surgical planning to post-operative care.
- Turkey: Offering high-quality healthcare services at competitive prices, Turkey is becoming a popular destination for medical tourists seeking scoliosis treatment. Turkish hospitals boast state-of-the-art facilities and orthopedic experts who specialize in adolescent scoliosis correction.
- India: India has a reputation for providing affordable yet high-quality medical care, making it an attractive option for spinal surgery. With a network of internationally accredited hospitals and experienced spine surgeons, India is well-prepared to handle complex cases of scoliosis.
- Mexico: Mexico is a convenient option for North American patients seeking scoliosis surgery abroad. With advanced healthcare facilities, skilled medical professionals, and cost-effective treatments, the country offers timely and effective care for those with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
Risks & Considerations
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the incision site or deeper within the spinal area. Proper sterilization and post-operative care are crucial to minimize this risk.
- Nerve Damage: Although rare, there is a risk of nerve injury during the surgery, which could lead to weakness, numbness, or paralysis. Surgeons use neuromonitoring techniques to minimize this risk.
- Blood Loss: Scoliosis surgery can result in significant blood loss, necessitating transfusions during or after the procedure. Surgeons often use techniques to control bleeding and reduce blood loss.
- Failure of Fusion: In some cases, the vertebrae may not fuse properly, resulting in a condition known as pseudarthrosis. This can cause persistent pain and may require additional surgery.
- Limited Mobility: Since the surgery involves fusing sections of the spine, some patients may experience limited flexibility in the affected area. However, the extent of this limitation varies and is often outweighed by the benefits of the correction.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital
When selecting a doctor and hospital for idiopathic scoliosis treatment, consider the experience and qualifications of the surgeon. It's important to choose a surgeon who specializes in scoliosis and has a proven track record of successful outcomes. Reviewing patient testimonials and seeking second opinions can also help in making an informed decision.
The hospital should be equipped with the latest medical technology and offer comprehensive care, including a multidisciplinary team to support the patient’s recovery. It's advisable to choose a facility that is accustomed to treating international patients and offers support services, such as translation and assistance with travel arrangements.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
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