My 13-year-old daughter is scheduled for surgery this June. She had been braced for the last 2 years, and in spite of that she stands now at 33 degrees thoracic and 43 degrees lumbar (See attached pic). I just got a second opinion and this new doctor says no surgery is needed until the curve is over 50 degrees. I’m really confused! I’m leaning towards having the surgery done because: (1) The scoliosis has rapidly progressed, even with the brace worn full-time, and (2) these curves only get worse with time, and I might just be delaying the inevitable. The 2nd doctor says since my daughter is done growing (she got her period 1.5 years ago), she should only be put in observation.
I just can’t handle this wait, knowing that is not going to get better. I also have conflicting thoughts about doing a surgery that is mostly cosmetic at this time, since my daughter does not complain of any serious pain. On the other hand, it would be nice to correct this, once and for all, and not to worry about it for years to come. Your thoughts and opinions are welcome!
-JLP in Jacksonville, FL
I just can’t handle this wait, knowing that is not going to get better. I also have conflicting thoughts about doing a surgery that is mostly cosmetic at this time, since my daughter does not complain of any serious pain. On the other hand, it would be nice to correct this, once and for all, and not to worry about it for years to come. Your thoughts and opinions are welcome!
-JLP in Jacksonville, FL
Comment