Contact

Posterior Spinal Instrumented Fusion & Correction

Overview

What is Posterior Spinal Instrumented Fusion & Correction?

Posterior spinal instrumented fusion and correction is the most common surgical approach for treating adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and other major spinal deformities. The procedure aims to straighten and stabilise the spine, correcting the abnormal curve and restoring spinal balance. This is achieved by implanting rods and screws (instrumentation) from the back (posterior), providing strong correction while preserving as much motion as possible and minimising the fused segment.

Who is it for?

If you have moderate to severe scoliosis (usually with a spinal curve greater than 40-50 degrees) that is progressing or causing functional or cosmetic issues, and non-surgical treatments like bracing have not succeeded, you may be a candidate for posterior spinal fusion.

This procedure is typically recommended for individuals who meet the following criteria:

  • Adolescents or adults with progressive idiopathic, neuromuscular, or congenital scoliosis
  • Significant spinal curves (>40–50 degrees) or those worsening with growth
  • Spinal deformity affecting balance, lung function or appearance
  • Patients with failed conservative (non-surgical) management

What the Procedure Involves

During this surgery, you can expect the following steps:

  • The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, with the patient lying face down on a padded surgical bed
  • A midline incision is made over the curved region of the spine
  • Back muscles are gently moved aside to expose the vertebrae
  • Pedicle screws are placed in selected vertebrae, above and below the curve, guided safely by imaging technology
  • Curved rods are attached to the screws and carefully anchored, allowing the surgeon to straighten the spine to a more natural alignment
  • Bone graft (your own bone, donated bone, or a synthetic graft) is placed along the exposed bone to stimulate spinal fusion across the corrected curve
  • The incision is closed with sutures or staples; dressings are applied and you’ll be monitored in recovery
    The number of levels fused depends on your specific curve and surgical planning. The goal is to correct deformity while preserving as much spinal movement as possible.

Risks and Complications

All major surgeries carry risks. With posterior spinal fusion, complications may include:

  • Infection (1–3%)
  • Bleeding or need for transfusion
  • Nerve or spinal cord injury, which may cause temporary or permanent changes in movement or sensation (rare)
  • Failure of fusion (pseudoarthrosis)
  • Hardware concerns (loosening or breakage)
  • Blood clots in the legs or lungs
  • Lung, bowel, or bladder complications
  • Loss of some spinal flexibility at fused segments
    Most complications are rare and your surgeon will discuss steps taken to minimise risk before your procedure.

Recovery Expectations and Duration

Here’s what most patients experience during recovery:

  • Hospital stay is typically 4–7 days, with early mobilisation encouraged
  • Pain and stiffness lessen over several weeks; pain control is provided, and physiotherapy starts as soon as possible
  • Return to school or light activities occurs within 4–8 weeks, while non-contact sport and full activity may require 6–12 months
  • Bending and twisting are generally limited during the first 3–6 months while fusion occurs
  • Follow-up appointments monitor healing, hardware position, and spinal alignment with X-rays
    Most patients notice an immediate improvement in spinal balance and appearance, and severe curve progression is halted by the fusion.

FAQs

Will my child lose back mobility after fusion?
Some motion is lost at the fused levels, but most daily activities are preserved, especially if the lowest lumbar vertebrae are spared. Most young people adapt remarkably well.

Is the correction permanent?
Yes, once the bones fuse successfully, the correction is long-lasting. Regular follow-up ensures early detection of any rare complications.