Scoliosis
Scoliosis is defined as a curvature of the spine measuring 10 degrees or greater. A normal spine looks straight, but a spine affected by scoliosis shows a side-to-side curvature that appears to create the shape of the letters “S” or “C.” The back bones (vertebrae) may also be rotated. This can make it appear as if the person who has scoliosis is leaning to one side.
Scoliosis is not due to poor posture.
Spinal curvature from scoliosis may occur on the right, left, or both sides of the spine. Both the middle, known as thoracic, and the lower, known as lumbar, spine may be affected by scoliosis.
Scoliosis is not due to poor posture.
Spinal curvature from scoliosis may occur on the right, left, or both sides of the spine. Both the middle, known as thoracic, and the lower, known as lumbar, spine may be affected by scoliosis.
Anterior Scoliosis Correction
Anterior Scoliosis Correction (ASC) surgery is performed at Saint Peter’s University Hospital by spine surgeon M. Darryl Antonacci, MD, who pioneered the procedure, and his associate, spine surgeon Laury A. Cuddihy, MD. It is a muscle sparing less invasive treatment for scoliosis done using minimally invasive techniques.
Dr. Antonacci’s pioneering ASC technique reverses the abnormal growth of the scoliosis pattern by restraining one side of the spine to allow the other side to grow and be “remodeled.” His technique is known as “growth modulation” and “remodeling.” Using specialized screws and chords to straighten out the asymmetrical side of the spine makes it possible to straighten the affected side of the spine to a more normal position. Over time, the vertebrae and disks of the spine “remodel” themselves and remain correct.
Patients typically are at least 10 years of age and have a thoracic, thoracolumbar, or lumbar curves of more than 35 degrees. Unlike traditional invasive back surgery, none of the muscles of the back are cut during anterior scoliosis correction surgery, contributing to faster healing following surgery. The use of minimally invasive techniques contributes to less blood loss. Patients recover in approximately four weeks, and many resume their day-to-day activities at six weeks.