Scoliosis is a postural disorder characterized by lateral curvature of the spine, most often in the thoracic or lumbar region. The cosmetic and physical defect manifests as a protruding shoulder or ribs. Such changes are particularly noticeable when the patient bends forward with arms down. The curvature of the spine can occur in the cervical, thoracic, lumbar regions, or in a mixed type.
Disorders typically manifest as:
- Asymmetry of the shoulders
- Unilateral protrusion of the shoulder blade
- Pelvic tilt
- Waist asymmetry.
Causes
The physiological occurrence of scoliosis is associated with the intense growth period of bones and the body as a whole in children from 1 year to 15 years.
Forms:
- Congenital – the spine curves in utero, with the disorder detected after 10 years. Children of asthenic constitution are affected – their musculature is underdeveloped, the chest is sunken, shoulders are brought forward, and the head is lowered. These children are inactive, tearful, have increased sweating, and their limbs are cyanotic and moist.
- Acquired – the disorder arises under the influence of external negative factors – incorrect posture, sedentary lifestyle.
Diagnosis of Scoliosis in Israel
Degrees of Scoliosis:
- Deformation is visually unnoticeable – curvature up to 10 degrees. Posture is hunched, shoulders at different heights;
- Spine deviates to one side by 11-25 degrees. Asymmetry of shoulders and pelvis is noticeable, compensatory curves may form. Mild discomfort and pain may occur;
- Change in back shape. Curvature of 26-50 degrees. Intercostal spaces are sunken, abdominal muscles weaken, an internal hump forms. Patients report severe back pain;
- Curvature greater than 50 degrees. Persistent deformation of the thoracic cage is observed, rib hump is pronounced. Back pain becomes unbearable. Internal organs are affected.
At Ichilov Clinic, a series of diagnostic measures are conducted with the help of leading orthopedic specialists and the latest equipment:
- Consultation with a traumatologist and orthopedic surgeon
- X-ray of the spine
- Computed tomography – visualization of the position of vertebrae and nerve endings in the spinal cord
- Magnetic resonance imaging – to assess anomalies of the spinal cord. Usually prescribed for patients with a pacemaker
- Ultrasound.
Treatment of Scoliosis in Israel
Treatment of scoliosis at the Israeli Ichilov Clinic is carried out by experienced orthopedic surgeons. All doctors have specialized and gained professional experience in leading clinics worldwide.
Conservative Treatment
Is possible only at stages 1 and 2 of scoliosis. Aimed at correcting posture. Includes:
- Medication therapy (pain relievers, chondroprotectors, vitamins)
- Wearing a brace for at least 16 hours a day
- Therapeutic gymnastics.
Surgical Treatment
Performed for dysplastic scoliotic disorders in the thoracic and cervico-thoracic regions that have reached stage 2, and the deformation is progressing to stage 3. The intervention aims to compensate for the curvature and stabilize the position of the spine to a physiological state.
Types of surgical interventions for treating scoliosis at Ichilov Clinic:
- Without mechanical endocorrectors – individual segments of vertebrae are fused, which helps limit their growth and mobility;
- Involvement of dynamic mechanical endocorrectors made of titanium in the operation to allow vertebrae to grow normally and not limit their mobility;
- Ventral and dorsal compression methods – straightening using metal rods;
The operation lasts 2-4 hours with subsequent hospitalization at Ichilov Clinic for 5-7 days.