Are there many x-rays required before surgery and post-op? Any MRIs or CT scans? I just wonder how much radiation scoliosis surgery patients are exposed to.
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Hi Carol...
It really depends on your surgeon. The standard of care for the industry seems to be s-rays pre-operatively, and post-operatively at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and yearly after that if there are any concerns. You may be asked to have bending xrays pre-operatively. Most of the top spine centers have low dose x-ray equipment. CT scans are often ordered pre-operatively, but are usually only ordered post-operatively if there is some concern. (I know of at least one surgeon, however, who asks all long fusion patients to have a postoperative CT scan.) Also, if you get enrolled in any special study, additional radiation may be part of the protocol. If you're approached about a study, and you have concern about radiation, you should carefully read the study consent. Lastly, you will likely get a significant amount of radiation during surgery, from fluoroscopy or O-arm or C-arm CT, used to confirm anatomy and screw placement.
Regards,
LindaNever argue with an idiot. They always drag you down to their level, and then they beat you with experience. --Twain
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Surgery 2/10/93 A/P fusion T4-L3
Surgery 1/20/11 A/P fusion L2-sacrum w/pelvic fixation
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