Scoliosis is a complex condition that involves an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, and treatment options include Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) at Acıbadem Healthcare Group. Its management is dependent on comprehending its causes, symptoms, and innovative treatments. The treatment for scoliosis is advanced with Acıbadem Healthcare Group’s Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT), which offers promising results in place of traditional spinal fusion surgery.
What is Scoliosis?
A “C” or “S” shape is commonly exhibited in scoliosis, which is characterized by a spine that curves sideways and measures 10 degrees at most. Although it can occur at any age, it is most frequently diagnosed in adolescence. The most prevalent type of scoliosis is idiopathic, which is caused by an unknown cause and typically affects adolescents. Other types of condition include congenital, neuromuscular, and degenerative scoliosis.
What Causes Scoliosis?
The cause of idiopathic scoliosis is still uncertain in 80% of cases. However, other forms can arise from different conditions as well. These conditions are congenital spinal deformities, neuromuscular conditions, and degenerative changes in the spine. Scoliosis runs in families, and genetics is believed to play a crucial role.
What Are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?
The severity and progression of the curve can affect the symptoms of scoliosis.
Typical symptoms are:
- unbalanced shoulders
- uneven waistline
- elevated hips
The deformation of the rib cage in scoliosis can cause back pain, reduced lung capacity, and cardiac problems. Effective management of the condition requires an early physical exam and imaging tests.
What are the Different Types of Scoliosis
Understanding the types of scoliosis is vital for tailoring treatment. The main types include:
- Idiopathic Scoliosis: The most prevalent form with no apparent cause, typically occurring in adolescents.
- Congenital Scoliosis: Caused by vertebral anomalies present at birth.
- Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Associated with neuromuscular diseases.
- Degenerative Scoliosis: Occurs in adults due to spinal degeneration
How is Scoliosis Treatment? How to Fix Scoliosis?
Traditional scoliosis can be treated through observation, bracing, and surgery. It is common to use bracing for growing children with moderate curves. When the curve goes beyond 45-50 degrees, surgical procedures like spinal fusion are recommended. However, improving medical technology has led to the development of less invasive options like VBT. It provides more dynamic solutions for younger patients.
What You Need to Know about Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT)?
VBT is becoming an increasingly popular option for younger patients. It is a more flexible and growth-friendly treatment for scoliosis than the conventional methods.
What is Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT)?
VBT is an innovative procedure designed to treat scoliosis allowing continued growth and flexibility. Unlike spinal fusion, VBT is different since it involves connecting a flexible cord to the convex side of the spine. Curve correction is possible as a result of this tension, while also maintaining spinal flexibility.
Who is a Candidate for VBT?
VBT is primarily indicated for skeletally immature patients with idiopathic scoliosis. Candidates are usually adolescents and patients with 35-60 degrees of spinal curves that may progress. Early intervention with VBT can lead to better outcomes since the patient is still growing. This growth potential may eventually fix the spinal curve.
How Does Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) Work?
The VBT procedure begins with small incisions enabling a thoracoscopic camera and instruments to fit. Screws are used to tether the vertebrae in the convex to the curve. The tether functions as a tension band that gradually adjusts as the patient grows.
What Age is Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) for?
The ideal age for VBT is between 10 and 14, with a high growth potential. The body’s natural growth is harnessed to correct curves, making it crucial to have interventions. Eligibility requires the evaluation of each patient’s growth plates and skeletal maturity.
What is the Success Rate of Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT)?
The success of VBT largely depends on patient selection, with reports indicating a high rate of curve stabilization and correction in appropriately selected candidates. Studies indicate that VBT can be a useful tool in correcting curves and improving patient satisfaction. However, the procedure still requires long-term studies to ensure its complete efficacy over a while.
There have been over 200 operations in the treatment of scoliosis to date. 85% of these were performed through non-fusional approaches.
Is VBT FDA Approved?
In 2019, the FDA approved VBT for the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis in children and teenagers. The approval was granted after clinical studies proved its effectiveness and safety. It is a significant breakthrough in the treatment of scoliosis, providing ‘non-fusion’ therapy.
How Much Does Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) Cost?
VBT charges can vary greatly depending on different factors. Those factors are the location of medical facilities, the difficulty level, and the patient’s insurance. VBT might be more expensive upfront than traditional fusion surgery. However, its potential to reduce long-term healthcare costs makes it more appealing to many families.
Why Acıbadem for Treatment?
Acıbadem Healthcare Group stands at the forefront of scoliosis treatment. Providing the solution ‘ VBT’ within a multidisciplinary framework, treatment methods are planned individually. Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) represents a paradigm shift in scoliosis treatment, particularly for young patients. Through its experienced specialists, Acıbadem is the leader of the VBT method in Turkey. It is also one of the leaders in advanced spinal treatments, focusing on patient-centered care.
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