Minimal Invasive Scoliosis or Open Surgery

Patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery have screws placed using the surgeon's preferred method: 3D navigation, robotic assistance, freehand, or combinations. A long incision of the skin is made without detaching the erector spinae muscles. Each screw is inserted through the musculature, and positioning is verified with intraoperative CT; misplaced screws are corrected. Rods are then shaped, placed, and deformity correction is performed. The surgeon may decorticate some or all facet joints using minimally invasive techniques before closing the wound.

In traditional open scoliosis surgery, the surgeon uses the preferred method for screw placement (3D navigation, robotic assistance, freehand, or combinations). A long incision is made, and the spinal musculature is detached to fully expose the posterior elements. All screws are inserted through this open area, and their positions are verified with intraoperative CT; misplacements are corrected if needed. Rods are shaped, placed, and deformity correction is performed. Decortication of facet joints, spinous processes, and laminae may be performed with a high-speed burr or similar technique. The wound is then closed.