Publisher's Synopsis
Spinal fusion surgery is currently recommended when curve magnitude exceeds 40-45 degrees. Early attempts at spinal fusion surgery which were aimed to leave the patients with a mild residual deformity, failed to meet such expectations. These aims have since been revised to the more modest goals of preventing progression, restoring 'acceptability' of the clinical deformity and reducing curvature. In view of the fact that there is no evidence that health related signs and symptoms of scoliosis can be altered by spinal fusion in the long-term, a clear medical indication for this treatment cannot be derived. Knowledge concerning the rate of complications of scoliosis surgery may enable us to establish a cost/ benefit relation of this intervention and to improve the standard of the information and advice given to patients. It is also hoped that this study will help to answer questions in relation to the limiting choice between the risks of surgery and the "wait and see - observation only until surgery might be recommended," strategy widely used. The purpose of this review is to present the actual data available on the rate of complications in scoliosis surgery. Proceeds from the sale of this book go to support an elderly disabled person.
