SCOLIOSIS AND SPINE DOCTORS NEAR ME

Scoliosis and Spine Doctors Near Me

When patients are looking for a “scoliosis doctor near me”, a “scoliosis surgeon near me,” or a “Spine doctor near me”, they often fail to find a physician or institute that focuses on diagnosing and treating scoliosis and spine deformities. Our Institute stands as “one of a kind”. As such, we specialize in all types of spine conditions for all ages, from infancy to juveniles to adolescence to adulthood. For patients with mild, moderate, and severe scoliosis or other complex spine conditions, please note that our doctors and surgeons are dedicated to research, treatment, and our patient’s quality of life. Also, our physicians belong to the Scoliosis Research Society and North American Spine Society and participate in research studies.

The Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute provides a comprehensive list of specialists with expertise in various areas of orthopedic medicine. This includes but is not limited to, professionals who specialize in advanced surgical procedures, musculoskeletal disorders, and sports injuries that affect the spine. Each of the listed specialists sees patients in their Dallas, Plano, and Frisco, Texas offices, and provides patients with top-tier scoliosis and spine care. The specialists have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide the most sophisticated and complicated scoliosis and spine care available.

In sum, the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute doctors are qualified to treat virtually all types of scoliosis, leveraging their extensive training and experience to provide the very best treatment and care.

Selecting a Scoliosis or Spine Doctor

When selecting a specialist for scoliosis treatment, it’s critical to consider several crucial criteria to ensure the most effective care and support. The doctors at the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute have the following qualities that all scoliosis and spine doctors should possess:

• Proven Success: Choose a practitioner who has demonstrated positive outcomes in treating scoliosis and spine patients. Their track record should showcase a history of effective treatment results.
• Realistic Goals: Ensure that the specialist sets achievable and clear treatment objectives. They must provide a straightforward and honest outlook on what to expect from the treatment process.
• Patient Empowerment: A top-tier scoliosis or spine specialist should not only treat the condition but also empower their patients. Look for someone who actively teaches patients how to manage their condition independently, providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge.
• Experience and Qualifications: The specialist’s qualifications, expertise, and experience are extremely important. Check their credentials, training background, and how long they have been practicing.
• Teaching Ability: Since managing scoliosis and spine conditions is an ongoing process, the ability of a practitioner to educate and instruct effectively is essential. Assess their aptitude for teaching and ensure you understand your treatment plan.
• Passion and Dedication: Choose a specialist who is genuinely passionate about helping scoliosis and spine patients. Their commitment can be a significant determinant in the success of your treatment.

Considering these criteria will help patients find a specialist who is not just competent but also a supportive ally in managing scoliosis and spine conditions.

How Can Parents Find Recommendations for Scoliosis Doctors?

Finding the right scoliosis doctor for your child is crucial for ensuring they receive the best care possible. Here are some steps to help you gather reliable recommendations:

• Ask Other Parents: Talk to other parents within your community or support groups who have children with scoliosis. Their firsthand experiences can provide valuable insights and suggestions.
• Consult Local Professionals: Reach out to local chiropractors, orthopedic clinics, and pediatricians. They often have networks and can recommend specialists who focus on scoliosis treatment.
• Check Online Reviews: Utilize websites such as HealthGrades, Vitals, and RateMDs to read reviews and ratings of doctors in your area. These platforms often include patient testimonials that can help you make an informed decision.
• Join Support Groups: Online forums and social media groups dedicated to scoliosis can be excellent resources. Members frequently share their experiences and can recommend reputable doctors.
• Verify Credentials: Ensure that any recommended doctor has the proper certifications and expertise in treating scoliosis. This information can often be found on the doctor’s or clinic’s website.

By following these steps, you can gather a list of potential scoliosis doctors and feel more confident in your choice.

Requirements for Certification Levels

Doctors specializing in scoliosis treatment can achieve various certification levels based on their training and experience. These levels help patients identify the most suitable professionals for their specific needs, from mild to severe scoliosis cases.

Standard Certification

Standard-Certified Doctors:

• Treat mild to moderate scoliosis.
• Suitable for cases that do not show rapid progression.
• Can handle non-progressive scoliosis in children and adults.
• Often recommended for patients who have been advised to simply monitor their condition.

Intensive Certification

Intensive-Certified Doctors:

• Have maintained Standard Certification for at least one year.
• Capable of condensing typical treatment programs to speed up the recovery process.
• Trained to manage advanced scoliosis, including progressive and severe cases.
• Qualified to treat patients who might otherwise require bracing or are borderline surgical candidates.

Fellowship Level

Fellows:

• Must have maintained Intensive Certification for at least five years.
• Hold additional certifications in techniques, bracing, scoliosis exercises, diagnostics, and patient management.
• Equipped to treat all types of scoliosis—infantile, juvenile, adolescent, and adult.
• Experience allows for a blend of various treatment methods to improve patient outcomes.
• Recommended for severe surgical candidates as well.

Senior Fellows:

• Must meet twice the requirements of the Fellowship Program.
• Represent the highest level of expertise in treating scoliosis, from mild to the most severe forms.
• Recognized for their capacity to manage the most complex cases across all age groups.

By understanding these certification levels, patients can make informed decisions about which doctor may best address their specific condition, ensuring they receive the highest standard of care tailored to their needs.

Making the Choice of Scoliosis Doctors Near Me

Dr. Hostin is the primary scoliosis surgeon at the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute and is classified as a Senior Fellowship Scoliosis Surgeon.  Doctors from around the world refer patients to Dr. Hostin because of his high level of knowledge, skills, and abilities.   He is an expert who performs complex surgeries to treat adult scoliosis. As such, Scoliosis Treatment decisions are based on many factors: the degree of curvature, curvature location, risk of progression, spinal imbalance, other disease factors, and the patient’s pain.

Understanding the classification of scoliosis can significantly impact the choice of a doctor for effective treatment. Scoliosis is generally classified into three categories:

• Mild scoliosis: 25 degrees or less. Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. When the curvature measures 25 degrees or less, it is classified as mild scoliosis. This degree of curvature often goes unnoticed in its early stages and may not cause significant discomfort or visible deformity. However, it’s essential to monitor mild scoliosis regularly to prevent progression. Factors such as age, growth spurts, and physical activity can influence the development of the condition.
• Moderate scoliosis: 25 to 40 degrees
• Severe scoliosis: 40+ degrees

What Types of Scoliosis Cases Can Senior Fellows Handle?

Senior Fellows are equipped to manage a wide range of scoliosis cases, thanks to their pinnacle achievement in specialized training and recognition. Their expertise covers all age groups and severity levels, making them highly versatile in their field.

• Infantile Scoliosis: From the earliest signs of curvature in infants, Senior Fellows are adept at early diagnosis and appropriate intervention, minimizing long-term impacts.
• Juvenile Scoliosis: As children grow, their spines can develop more complex curvatures. Senior Fellows are skilled in addressing these challenges head-on, ensuring that growth-related changes are managed effectively.
• Adolescent Scoliosis: Teenagers often experience rapid growth spurts, which can exacerbate scoliosis. Senior Fellows not only treat existing conditions but also provide preventive care to manage progression during these critical years.
• Adult Scoliosis: Even in adulthood, scoliosis can present unique challenges. Whether it’s a mild case or a severe curvature, Senior Fellows bring a thorough understanding of the condition coupled with advanced treatment options tailored for adults.

By leveraging their top-level training, Senior Fellows ensure that patients receive the best care possible, regardless of age or severity.

Risks

Because the surgeon operates around the spinal cord, back operations are always considered extremely delicate and may be dangerous. Finally, take time to review the risks involved with spine surgery with your doctor. Also, make sure you agree with both the risks and the benefits of the planned procedure. When choosing a doctor for such a delicate operation, it’s crucial to consider their qualifications and recognition in the field. Look for surgeons who have achieved high levels of recognition or are members of prestigious professional organizations. Such credentials often indicate a higher level of expertise and experience, which can be critical factors in the success of your surgery.
By combining a thorough understanding of the risks and benefits with careful selection of a highly recognized and qualified surgeon, you can make a more informed decision about your spine surgery.

Exploring Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Scoliosis and Spine Conditions First

Since the early 2000s, the landscape of scoliosis treatment has broadened significantly, incorporating various non-surgical options. These approaches are often preferable for those seeking less invasive methods. Traditional surgery, though effective, comes with typical surgical risks and a significant recovery period. In contrast, non-surgical methods can offer a viable alternative with different levels of engagement and less disruption to daily life.

Focused Non-Surgical Techniques

• Exercise-Based Methods: One of the leading non-surgical treatments is the use of specialized exercises, such as those from the Schroth method. This approach focuses on tailored exercises that aim to de-rotate, elongate, and stabilize the spine in a three-dimensional plane. Unlike general physical therapy, these exercises are designed specifically to counteract the spinal distortions in scoliosis.
• Bracing Techniques: Another cornerstone of non-surgical scoliosis treatment is bracing. The Cheneau-Gensingen brace is an example of a modern brace design that is customized to the patient’s specific curve pattern. Research supports the effectiveness of bracing, particularly in adolescents, for preventing further progression of scoliotic curves. Bracing represents a proactive approach to managing scoliosis without the need for surgical intervention.

Choosing the Right Path

While the non-surgical route offers several advantages, including personalized treatment and often a focus on long-term management and lifestyle adjustment, it is crucial to select a specialist or a treatment center that aligns with your health goals and philosophical beliefs about health care. Each approach, from exercises to bracing, has its own methodology and ideal use scenario, and not all practitioners may support all non-surgical options equally.

It’s important to discuss all available options and consider how aggressive each treatment needs to be based on the individual’s specific condition and risk of progression. Consulting with a knowledgeable specialist who is experienced in various non-surgical methods can provide a comprehensive view of what to expect and how to best manage the condition.

Surgery

Scoliosis can manifest in different forms, including idiopathic scoliosis (of unknown cause), congenital scoliosis (due to vertebral anomalies present at birth), neuromuscular scoliosis (associated with neuromuscular conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy), and degenerative scoliosis (occurring in adults due to spinal degeneration). The severity of scoliosis is often measured by the Cobb angle, with angles greater than 40-50 degrees typically considered for surgical intervention.

Goals of Scoliosis Surgery

The primary objectives of scoliosis surgery are to:

• Correct the spinal curvature: Reduce the degree of curvature and restore proper spinal alignment.
• Stabilize the spine: Prevent further progression of the curve by fusing the affected vertebrae.
• Relieve pain and improve function: Alleviate discomfort associated with severe curvature and enhance the patient’s ability to perform daily activities.
• Improve cosmetic appearance: Correct visible deformities that may affect the patient’s self-esteem and social interactions.

Types of Scoliosis Surgery

1. Posterior Spinal Fusion (PSF)

Overview: Posterior spinal fusion is the most common surgical procedure for scoliosis. It involves making an incision along the midline of the back, exposing the vertebrae, and using rods, screws, hooks, and wires to correct the spinal curvature. Bone grafts are placed along the spine, which eventually fuse with the vertebrae to stabilize the corrected position.

Indications: PSF is typically indicated for idiopathic scoliosis in adolescents and adults, as well as for some cases of congenital and neuromuscular scoliosis.

Techniques:

• Instrumentation: Various devices (e.g., pedicle screws, rods) are used to hold the spine in a corrected position while fusion occurs.
• Bone Grafting: Bone grafts, either from the patient (autografts) or a donor (allografts), are used to promote fusion.
• Correction: Surgeons may use derotation and translation techniques to straighten the spine.

Benefits:

• Effective in achieving and maintaining spinal alignment.
• High success rate in preventing curve progression.

Risks:

• Potential for infection, nerve damage, or non-union of the bone graft.
• Post-operative pain and stiffness.

2. Anterior Spinal Fusion (ASF)

Overview: Anterior spinal fusion involves accessing the spine from the front (anterior) of the body. The surgeon makes an incision in the side of the chest or abdomen, removes intervertebral discs, and inserts bone grafts and instrumentation to fuse the vertebrae.

Indications: ASF is often used for thoracic or thoracolumbar scoliosis, particularly when the curve is located primarily in the front of the spine.

Techniques:

• Thoracotomy or Laparotomy: Incision through the chest (thoracotomy) or abdomen (laparotomy) to reach the spine.
• Disc Removal: Intervertebral discs are removed to create space for bone grafts.
• Instrumentation: Screws and rods are used to stabilize the spine during fusion.

Benefits:

• Direct access to the vertebrae for more precise correction.
• Can be combined with posterior fusion for more extensive curves.

Risks:

• More invasive than PSF, with a longer recovery time.
• Potential complications include lung or bowel injury.

3. Thoracoscopic Surgery

Overview: Thoracoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique used to perform anterior spinal fusion. It involves making several small incisions and using a thoracoscope (a specialized camera) to guide the surgery.

Indications: Ideal for thoracic scoliosis and when minimal scarring and faster recovery are desired.

Techniques:

• Small Incisions: Several small incisions are made instead of a large open one.
• Video Assistance: Surgeons use video technology to perform the surgery with precision.
• Instrumentation and Grafting: Similar to ASF but done through smaller ports.

Benefits:

• Less post-operative pain and quicker recovery compared to open surgery.
• Reduced scarring and lower risk of complications.

Risks:

• Requires specialized training and equipment.
• Limited visibility and access compared to open surgery, potentially reducing the degree of correction.

4. Growing Rods

Overview: Growing rods are a type of expandable spinal instrumentation used in young children with scoliosis who are still growing. The rods are attached to the spine and can be lengthened periodically as the child grows.

Indications: Early-onset scoliosis in children who are too young for spinal fusion.

Techniques:

• Initial Surgery: Rods are implanted along the spine with anchors at the top and bottom.
• Expansion: The rods are lengthened every few months through minimally invasive procedures, allowing the spine to grow.

Benefits:

• Allows spinal growth while controlling the curvature.
• Delays the need for a more extensive fusion surgery until the child is older.

Risks:

• Requires multiple surgeries over time for rod lengthening.
• Risk of rod breakage or infection.

5. Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT)

Overview: Vertebral body tethering is a less invasive alternative to fusion surgery. It involves placing screws along the convex (outer) side of the curve and connecting them with a flexible cord (tether). The tether is tightened to correct the curve while allowing continued growth and flexibility.

Indications: VBT is primarily used in children and adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis who are still growing and have a moderate curve.

Techniques:

• Screw Placement: Screws are inserted into the vertebral bodies along the outer side of the curve.
• Tether Attachment: A strong, flexible cord is attached to the screws and tightened to correct the curve.

Benefits:

• Preserves spinal flexibility compared to fusion.
• Potential to further correct the curve as the child grows.

Risks:

• Newer technique with less long-term data available.
• Possible need for additional surgery if the tether breaks or if the curve progresses.

6. Spinal Osteotomy

Overview: Spinal osteotomy is a complex procedure used for severe or rigid scoliosis curves that cannot be corrected with standard fusion techniques. It involves cutting and realigning the bones of the spine to achieve a more normal curvature.

Indications: Severe, rigid scoliosis in both adults and adolescents, particularly in cases of previous spinal surgery or congenital deformities.

Techniques:

• Bone Cutting: Specific vertebrae are cut to allow for realignment.
• Correction: The spine is realigned and stabilized with rods and screws.

Benefits:

• Allows for correction of severe or fixed curves.
• Can be combined with other procedures for comprehensive treatment.

Risks:

• High risk of complications, including nerve damage and blood loss.
• Longer recovery time compared to other types of scoliosis surgery.

Conclusion

Scoliosis surgery encompasses a range of procedures tailored to the specific needs of the patient, based on the type and severity of the curvature, age, and overall health. From the commonly performed posterior spinal fusion to the innovative vertebral body tethering, each surgical option offers distinct advantages and challenges. The choice of surgery is a collaborative decision between the patient, family, and medical team, to achieve the best possible outcome in terms of spinal alignment, function, and quality of life. As surgical techniques and technologies continue to evolve, the future of scoliosis surgery holds promise for even more effective and less invasive treatments.

Expertise and Experience

Over the past 14 years, we successfully performed over 16,000 surgeries and evaluated more than 100,000 patients from around the world. Moreover, our dedicated staff and care coordinators, who are assigned to each patient,  help coordinate diagnostic tests, physician appointments, and scheduling. To ensure all procedures and testing are approved, your personal care coordinator will work with your insurance company. For those abroad or out-of-state, we will help set up imaging, testing, or physical therapy closer to your home.

We help patients start living without pain and get back to a more normal life. In doing so, our very experienced orthopedic physicians take the time necessary to diagnose each patient and explain the treatment options available for all types of spinal problems. Before you make your decision about any treatment or spine surgery, we will collaborate and share health information with your primary care physician.

Expected Results from Scoliosis Treatment

When undergoing scoliosis treatment, patients can anticipate several key outcomes:

• Measurable Curve Reduction: Effective treatments often result in a measurable reduction in the curvature of the spine, providing clear, quantifiable improvements.
• Improved Quality of Life: Beyond physical changes, patients frequently experience an enhanced quality of life. This improvement encompasses better mobility, increased comfort in daily activities, and overall well-being.
• Pain Relief: Many patients report significant pain relief following successful treatment, allowing them to engage more fully in their everyday lives.

By selecting a specialist who embodies these qualities and understanding the potential results, patients can make informed decisions and look forward to tangible improvements in their condition and overall health.

Revision Surgery

We also have masterful experience with revision spine surgeries. For example, we understand the difficulties of undergoing a spinal operation that has not stopped the pain.  We see those patients every week. and as such, we will correct the problems and stop the pain.  As an example, our surgeons have had a lot of success with corrective revision surgeries, which often involve a spinal fusion. Thus, we understand the spine and what it means to stand up straight and walk a distance. Additionally, we are looking to a bright future for you, a long-term solution to your back pain. So, together we will all agree on the best way to restore you to enjoy a pain-free life.

Why Choose the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute for Scoliosis Doctors Near Me

As soon as you walk into our practice, you will notice how we are focused on making sure that every part of your experience with Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute is stellar. With each new patient, your physician will personally take the time to review any records and imaging and meet with you to discuss his findings. Also, we have a low radiation, stand-up, and quick X-ray located in our office to help facilitate any imaging needs required to diagnose your condition correctly. Finally, all of our physicians and staff are eager to provide the best quality care for you.

At the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute, we focus on Scoliosis and Spine Conditions for which we properly Diagnose Treat, & Care for our Patients. Our fellowship-trained, board-certified expert orthopedic scoliosis surgeons, Richard Hostin, MD, Devesh Ramnath, MD, Ishaq Syed, MD, Shyam Kishan, MD, and Kathryn Wiesman, MD specialize in all types of spine conditions, deformities, and spine pain.