Our program offers diagnosis and treatment for children experiencing a variety of spinal conditions, including:

• Degenerative discs
• Flatback syndrome
• Herniated discs
• Kyphosis
• Sagittal malalignment
• Scheuermann's kyphosis
• Scoliosis, including adolescent, congenital, infantile and juvenile
• Spinal fractures
• Spinal trauma

Scoliosis can take form in numerous ways, so each care plan we create is as unique as the child it is made to support. After the level of spinal curvature is determined through imaging tests, treatment planning can begin, taking into account health history, family circumstances and personal goals.

Mild scoliosis is typically approached with simple observation and monitoring. For those experiencing more moderate curvature, bracing is prioritized, often coupled with chiropractic medicine, physical therapy and yoga to straighten and prevent further curving. When curvature is severe, surgery is preferred. Our practice works with board-certified, fellowship-trained spine surgeons, who use advanced techniques to correct curvature and prevent further progression.

Magnetic treatment for early-onset scoliosis (EOS)

For young children facing severe early-onset scoliosis, we offer a surgical treatment for EOS using specialized magnetically-controlled growth rods. Once these are placed, our doctors can use an external controller to lengthen the rods as your child grows, without sedation or surgery.

Posterior (back) spinal fusion surgery

During this surgery, metal implants are attached to the spine and connected to rods, which are used to correct the curve and hold the spine in place until the body fuses it and rods as one bone. After this surgery, no external bracing or casting is used. This surgery is often recommended if your child’s curve is greater than 45 degrees while they're growing, or is continuing to progress past 45 degrees after growth has stopped.

Vertebral body tethering (VBT)

VBT is a minimally invasive treatment option for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The most common form of scoliosis, AIS typically occurs after 10 years of age, although the cause is unknown. VBT works best for children who are still growing, as it harnesses the power of their ongoing growth to bring about positive outcomes.

VBT can often be used as an alternative for spinal fusion, which uses hardware and bone grafts to combine levels of the spine and stop the curvature. However, fusion can restrict your child’s overall mobility. With VBT, we can preserve mobility, allowing children to actively participate in sports and activities. Additionally, since it is minimally invasive, your child can experience a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery.

Good candidates for VBT are often:

• Between the ages of eight and 15
• Experiencing idiopathic scoliosis
• Living with a spinal curve between 35 and 65 degrees
• Not responsive to bracing

Even if your child does not meet all these criteria, contact us for a consultation. Each child is unique and together, we can discuss your child’s individual needs and goals.

Parents are typically given a lot of information when considering scoliosis surgery. A second opinion can often bring clarity and peace of mind, particularly if you are weighing multiple types of surgery. Call us at (720) 945-9098 to begin the conversation.

Providers making a patient referral may fax our office at (303) 861-4741.