Hi there,
Dr Newton also does (and is a pioneer in) spinal tethering, a fusionless option for some kids with scoliosis. I don't know if a 60-degree curve is eligible for tethering, but I know of several kids with high-50's curve who have been tethered sucessfully. Definitely at least worth asking about. Early on with tethering they could not tether TL curves but I think I have now heard of some being done, either by him or at Shriner's Philadelphia.
I know it is difficult and seems daunting to fly for spinal surgery and care, but it is possible. We flew three times in 2 months from Oregon to St Louis for my daughter's surgery, and she was really a champ even flying home 5 days after her surgery. I know of a family that flies from Germany to see Dr Newton, and their daughter had a very successful tethering with him on a very large curve (50's I think).
If you PM me I can put you in touch with some families whose children had surgery with Dr Newton. Best of luck with your research, and I'm sure you can't go wrong with either Newton or Skaggs.
Last edited by leahdragonfly; 07-15-2013 at 08:22 AM.
Gayle, age 50
Oct 2010 fusion T8-sacrum w/ pelvic fixation
Feb 2012 lumbar revision for broken rods @ L2-3-4
Sept 2015 major lumbar A/P revision for broken rods @ L5-S1
mom of Leah, 15 y/o, Diagnosed '08 with 26* T JIS (age 6)
2010 VBS Dr Luhmann Shriners St Louis
2017 curves stable/skeletely mature
also mom of Torrey, 12 y/o son, 16* T, stable