Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Surgery: Procedure & Recovery Guide

Traditional scoliosis surgery often involved large incisions, significant muscle damage, and lengthy recovery times. Today, at Sancheti Hospital in Pune, we’re proud to offer minimally invasive scoliosis surgery (MISS) – a revolutionary approach that achieves excellent results with smaller cuts, less pain, and faster healing.

If you or your loved one is facing scoliosis surgery, understanding your options is crucial. This comprehensive guide will help you learn about minimally invasive techniques, who’s a good candidate, what to expect during recovery, and how these advanced procedures compare to traditional surgery.

What is Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Surgery?

Minimally invasive scoliosis surgery uses smaller incisions, muscle-sparing techniques, and advanced technology to correct spinal curves with less trauma to your body. Instead of one large cut down the middle of your back, surgeons make several small incisions and use special tools to straighten the spine while preserving healthy muscle and tissue.

Key Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery:

Smaller scars and less visible marks
Less blood loss during surgery
Shorter hospital stays
Faster return to daily activities
Reduced pain after surgery
Lower risk of infection

Types of Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Surgery

1. Posterior MISS Fusion (For Teenagers)

This approach is commonly used for adolescent scoliosis:

How It Works:

Surgeon makes small, separate cuts along the back instead of one large incision
Special tools are used to place screws through tiny openings
Metal rods are inserted to straighten the spine with minimal muscle damage

Who’s a Good Candidate:

Teenagers with curves typically 60-70 degrees or less
Curves that are still flexible (not too stiff)
Patients who have tried bracing without success

Recovery Benefits:

Faster walking and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional surgery
Quicker return to school and sports activities
Less post-surgery pain

2. Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) – The “Fusionless” Option

VBT is an exciting newer technique that doesn’t fuse the spine bones together:

How It Works:

Surgeon accesses the spine from the side through small chest incisions
A flexible cord (tether) is attached to the curved part of the spine
As the child grows, the tether guides the spine to grow straighter
The spine remains flexible and can still move naturally

Who’s a Good Candidate:

Growing children and teens with flexible curves between 40-65 degrees
Patients who have tried bracing but the curve continues to worsen
Those who want to preserve spinal movement

Important Considerations:

Tether breakage occurs in about 21% of cases
Revision surgery may be needed in 11-13% of patients
Longer-term results are still being studied

3. Adult Degenerative Scoliosis MISS

For adults with scoliosis caused by aging and wear-and-tear:

Common Approaches:

Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF/OLIF): Surgeon accesses spine from the side to place spacers between vertebrae
Percutaneous Screws: Small incisions are used to place supportive screws and rods

Benefits for Adults:

Significant improvement in pain and function scores
Average hospital stay around one week
Fusion success rate of about 94%
Less blood loss compared to traditional approaches

Advanced Technology in MISS

Robot-Assisted Surgery

Modern scoliosis surgery often uses robotic assistance for greater precision:

Benefits of Robotic Technology:

More accurate screw placement
Fewer complications related to screw positioning
Reduced radiation exposure during surgery
Enhanced safety for complex cases

Navigation Systems

Computer-guided navigation helps surgeons work with extreme precision:

Real-time 3D imaging during surgery
Precise screw placement through small incisions
Reduced risk of nerve or blood vessel injury

Recovery Timeline: What to Expect

Immediate Recovery (Hospital Stay)

First 24-48 Hours:

Most patients start walking within hours of surgery
Pain is managed with medications
Hospital stay is typically shorter than traditional surgery

For Teenagers (Posterior MISS):

Hospital stay: 2-4 days (compared to 5-7 days for traditional surgery)
Faster return to walking and daily activities

For Adults (Lateral Approaches):

Average hospital stay around one week
Quicker mobilization compared to more extensive procedures

Early Recovery (First 6 Weeks)

What to Expect:

Gradual increase in walking distance and daily activities
Physical therapy may begin sooner than with traditional surgery
Return to school or light work activities typically faster
Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing

Activity Restrictions:

No heavy lifting (usually over 10 pounds)
Avoid twisting or bending movements
No driving until cleared by your surgeon
No swimming or soaking in water until incisions heal

Long-Term Recovery (3-12 Months)

Progressive Activity Return:

Faster return to sports and high-level activities compared to traditional surgery
Gradual increase in exercise and physical activities
Most restrictions lifted as healing progresses

Comparing MISS to Traditional Open Surgery

Advantages of MISS

Surgical Benefits:

Patient Benefits:

Smaller, less noticeable scars
Less post-operative pain
Quicker return to normal activities
Lower infection risk
Better cosmetic appearance

Trade-offs to Consider

Potential Limitations:

Surgery may take longer due to technical complexity
Requires specialized training and equipment
Not suitable for all curve types or severities
Learning curve for surgical teams

Who is a Candidate for MISS?

Good Candidates Include:

For Teenagers:

Curves typically 70 degrees or less
Flexible curves that can still be corrected
Failed bracing treatment
Good overall health

For VBT Specifically:

Still growing (skeletal immaturity)
Flexible thoracic curves between 40-65 degrees
Desire to maintain spinal flexibility
Understanding of potential revision surgery needs

For Adults:

Degenerative scoliosis with back pain
Curves that haven’t responded to non-surgical treatment
Good bone quality
Reasonable overall health for surgery

When Traditional Surgery May Be Better

Open surgery might be preferred for:

Very large or stiff curves
Complex deformities requiring extensive correction
Previous spine surgery with complications
Certain types of congenital scoliosis
When maximum correction is needed in a single procedure

Risks and Complications

VBT-Specific Risks

Common Complications:

Long-term Considerations:

6.6-year follow-up shows 71% maintain curves under 30 degrees
Ongoing monitoring needed for tether integrity
Some patients may eventually need fusion surgery

General MISS Risks

Potential Complications:

Hardware failure or breakage
Infection (lower risk than traditional surgery)
Nerve injury (rare with navigation/robotics)
Need for additional surgery

Latest Research and Advances

Ongoing Clinical Trials

2024 randomized trial comparing MISS to traditional surgery is underway
Studies tracking long-term outcomes of VBT patients
Research on optimal patient selection criteria

Technology Improvements

Enhanced robotic systems improving screw accuracy
Better navigation systems reducing radiation exposure
Improved tether materials for VBT procedures

Cost-Effectiveness Studies

Research shows MISS can be more cost-effective due to shorter stays and faster recovery
Health system benefits from reduced complications
Improved patient satisfaction scores

Why Choose Sancheti Hospital for Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Surgery

At Sancheti Hospital in Pune, we are at the forefront of minimally invasive scoliosis treatment:

Our Advanced Capabilities:

State-of-the-art robotic surgical systems
Advanced navigation technology
Comprehensive MISS program for all age groups
Specialized expertise in VBT and other fusionless options

Our Comprehensive Approach:

Detailed pre-surgical evaluation and planning
Multidisciplinary team including spine surgeons, anesthesiologists, and rehabilitation specialists
Personalized recovery programs
Long-term follow-up care

Why Our Patients Choose Us:

Leading orthopedic hospital in Pune with decades of spine expertise
Advanced technology and minimally invasive techniques
Experienced surgical team trained in the latest MISS procedures
Comprehensive patient education and support
Excellent outcomes and patient satisfaction

Making the Right Decision

Choosing between minimally invasive and traditional scoliosis surgery is a major decision that depends on many factors:

Important Considerations:

Your specific curve type and severity
Age and growth remaining
Previous treatments tried
Personal preferences about recovery time vs. maximum correction
Understanding of risks and benefits

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon:

Am I a good candidate for minimally invasive surgery?
What type of MISS would work best for my curve?
What are my expected outcomes compared to traditional surgery?
What’s your experience with the recommended procedure?
What should I expect during recovery?

Conclusion

Minimally invasive scoliosis surgery represents a significant advancement in spine care, offering excellent outcomes with reduced trauma to the body. Whether you’re considering posterior MISS fusion, the innovative VBT approach, or adult deformity correction, these techniques can provide effective treatment with faster recovery times.

At Sancheti Hospital, we’re committed to offering the most advanced and appropriate treatment options for each patient. Our experienced team will work with you to determine if minimally invasive surgery is right for your specific situation and guide you through every step of your treatment journey.

The field of minimally invasive scoliosis surgery continues to evolve, with ongoing research improving outcomes and expanding treatment options. By staying at the forefront of these developments, we ensure our patients receive the most effective and safest care available.

If you’re considering scoliosis surgery, don’t let fear of traditional approaches hold you back. Contact Sancheti Hospital’s spine specialists today to learn more about minimally invasive options and how they might benefit you or your loved one. Together, we can find the best path forward for your spine health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can minimally invasive scoliosis surgery be done on adults over 50?

Yes, but it depends on your spine condition and bone health. MISS is often used for adults with degenerative scoliosis (caused by aging), especially if the curve isn’t too severe and your bones are strong enough to hold screws. However, very stiff or complex curves in older adults may still need traditional surgery.

Can I have minimally invasive surgery if I’ve already had spine surgery before?

It’s possible, but more complicated. Scar tissue from past surgeries can make MISS harder or riskier. Many surgeons prefer open surgery in revision cases to get a clearer view and better control. Your surgeon will decide based on your specific history and imaging.

How do I know if my surgeon is truly experienced in MISS?

Ask directly: “How many minimally invasive scoliosis surgeries have you done?” and “Do you use robotics or navigation regularly?” MISS has a steep learning curve—surgeons need special training. Hospitals like Sancheti that specialize in spine care are more likely to have high-volume, skilled teams.

Does minimally invasive mean I won’t have any back pain after surgery?

Not necessarily. While MISS usually means less pain right after surgery, some people still have lingering discomfort during healing—especially if nerves were compressed before. Most see big pain relief long-term, but it’s not a 100% guarantee. Realistic expectations are key.

Can VBT (tethering) be removed later if it causes problems?

Yes, the tether can be removed or cut if it breaks, causes pain, or overcorrects the spine. In many cases, removing the tether stops its effect, and the spine may stabilize on its own—or eventually need a fusion. It’s one reason VBT is considered “reversible” compared to fusion.