Understanding Hybrid Spinal Fusion and Tethering for Scoliosis

Introduction

Hybrid spinal fusion or tethering is an upcoming surgery technique of the future. It aims to fuse the thoracic area of the spine which is rigid in people with or without scoliosis. The hybrid approach is perfect for youth with a moderate curve. This is because the tether is VBT and still needs growth to gain its full correction. Some curves can just have a fusion in the upper spine and aims to naturally straighten the lower curve but with the hybrid surgery another surgery can be avoided. For patients who considered a fusion down into the bottom of the spine to vertebrae past L2-3 a hybrid is a better alternative is applicable.

An X-ray of a hybrid approach that would have originally fused down to L3 had the hybrid not been available. This operation was t3-l1 and the tether extends from l1-l3

Scoliosis is the curve of the spine and whilst their many cases don't need surgery there are plenty of people that do, particularly kids. This is because the curve in teh spine can happen quick especially in growth spurts and during puberty. This can lead to kid developing severe curves without even knowing they have scoliosis let alone what it really is. Many kids and teens are needing surgery so many surgeons are working with some innovative and new techniques to avoid interfering with the lower part of the spine that controls movement and the ability for women/girls to have future in the future.

Scoliosis the curve of the spine

Through the advancements of surgical treatments tethers have become more available and surgeons have become creative to get an approach involving the well-known golden approach of a spinal fusion and combining it with VBT.

When having a Hybrid spinal fusion with tether it allows for more motion as it is implanted on teh lower spine where movement comes from. It also allows for further spinal alignment than letting lumbar curves try to correct alone. The pain often felt will occur where the vertebrae meet the fusion and the tether but can be easily dealt with through strengthening exercises and seeing a physio.

When considering tethering it is important to consider costs because tethering is not often covered by health insurances although can sometimes be included when done with a fusion. It is definitely worthwhile considering if your curve effects the lumbar spine at any vertebrae.