If you struggle with a spinal deformity, it may seem inescapable. The pain, limited mobility, and other difficulties get in the way of your lifestyle. Even for long-standing deformities, however, thoracic spine reconstruction can provide permanent relief. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides spinal reconstruction surgeries near you in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Here, we discuss spine reconstruction and its benefits.
Key Takeaways
- Thoracic spine reconstruction is a surgical procedure to treat thoracic spine deformities. It is a complex procedure that provides a more complete correction than spinal fusion.
- Spinal deformities can be caused by abnormal development, aging, and poorly healed injuries. All types can cause serious complications if not treated.
- NU-Spine provides thoracic spine reconstruction surgery that helps correct spinal deformities.
What Is Thoracic Spine Reconstruction?
Thoracic spine reconstruction is a surgical treatment for spinal deformities. This complex procedure is personalized for every patient. The surgeon uses a combination of implanted hardware, bone grafts, and other techniques to correct the spine’s alignment and relieve symptoms caused by severe thoracic spinal deformities.
Reconstruction surgery is a more aggressive approach than thoracic spinal fusion. While fusion can adjust minor misalignments, it is insufficient for treating serious deformities that affect multiple levels of the spine. Reconstruction is recommended for severe or complex issues that spinal fusion cannot adequately treat. Rather than focusing on a single problem area, reconstruction aims to address the entire spine to restore a normal contour.
What Causes Thoracic Deformity?
Thoracic deformity comes in two main categories. Scoliosis occurs when the spine curves to the side in either an S-shape or a C-shape. Kyphosis occurs when the thoracic spine curves too far forward, resulting in a hunched appearance. Both types can appear at any age and for many potential reasons. The three primary causes include:
- Congenital: The spinal deformity is caused by abnormal development. It is present from birth but may not be identified until adolescence.
- Degenerative: The spinal deformity is caused by wear and tear to the spinal discs (degenerative disc disease). It appears in late adulthood.
- Post-traumatic: The spinal deformity is caused by an injury or a past surgery that did not heal normally, changing the spine’s shape.
All types of spinal deformity can get worse over time. Though they might start small, the deformity gradually increases until it starts to cause serious problems. Pain, reduced mobility, breathing problems, and organ damage are all potential complications of a long-standing spinal deformity. Surgical treatment is the only way to address these issues and provide lasting relief.
Evaluation and Surgical Planning
Spinal reconstruction surgery begins with an in-depth evaluation stage. Surgeons Dr. Branko Skovrlj and Dr. Robert J. Rothrock use physical examinations, medical imaging, and careful measurements to form a complete understanding of the patient’s deformity. Medical imaging may be used to create a 3D model of the spine that can be examined from all angles. This in-depth study is essential, as every patient’s spinal deformity is unique. This requires a fully personalized approach to treatment.
Evaluation is followed by a careful planning stage to design the best procedure to address the patient’s condition. The NU-Spine surgeons believe in using the minimum amount of invasion possible. They apply advanced techniques, including osteotomy (reshaping bone), spinal fusion, and hardware implantation, with strategic precision to avoid compromising the patient’s safety.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After Spinal Reconstruction
Spinal reconstruction is a highly involved procedure. As a result, most patients can expect a hospital stay of several days. Patients are discharged as soon as they can walk around, eat, and manage their pain without IV anesthetics. After going home, full recovery from spinal reconstruction can take several months. The surgeon will carefully monitor the patient’s recovery to guide them safely through major milestones, including:
- Wearing a back brace to immobilize the spine
- Gradually increasing physical activity
- Transitioning off opioid medications
- Resuming driving within a few weeks
- Resuming office jobs after four to six weeks
- Resuming physical jobs after three months or longer
While the initial recovery takes several months, the bone will continue to heal and harden for up to 18 months. Heavy lifting and extreme twisting should be avoided until approved by the surgeon. Slow adjustments are crucial to ensure that the spine heals correctly.
Find Thoracic Deformity Treatment Near You in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida
Long-standing spinal deformities require complex treatment, which is why it’s important to choose an experienced surgeon. Transform your life with thoracic spine reconstruction at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment at one of our New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania locations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thoracic Reconstruction
How do I know if my thoracic deformity is severe enough for reconstruction?
Medical imaging and physical examinations are used to determine the severity of your deformity and plan the most appropriate treatment.
What is the typical recovery timeline after thoracic spine reconstruction?
Patients can usually start sedentary work a few weeks after surgery, though they may have to wait to resume physical jobs for a few months. Full fusion may take up to 18 months.
Will thoracic reconstruction change my height or posture noticeably?
Thoracic reconstruction may change your posture, creating a more natural, upright stance.