Details.
A minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a tiny video scope, small incisions, and specialized instruments to access the spine from the front or anterior side. It may be used for specific types of thoracic scoliosis, including severe, rigid idiopathic scoliosis in children who have not reached skeletal maturity, and can involve disc removal, fusion, and spinal instrumentation. Preparation may include chest X-rays, CT scans, positron emission tomography, electrocardiograms, blood tests, and pulmonary function tests. Patients may need to stop certain medicines and perform breathing exercises as directed by their doctor. Recovery may involve monitoring, oxygen after single-lung ventilation, intravenous pain medication, and assistance with walking, getting out of bed, and using stairs.
