Surgery for spinal deformity

There is a large body of evidence that suggests surgery is effective in correcting and arresting spinal deformity.

Bracing is not effective in preventing progression of deformity, but is effective in the short-term for positioning by reducing the abnormal forces on the developing spine. Most centres use bracing to delay spinal surgery until a child is closer to completing growth. There is no objective evidence for functional gains, but there is a great deal of subjective support from carers and patients.

There is no evidence that specialised seating prevents scoliosis, but it should be used to help children sit in a better position, increase comfort, improve upper limb function and to reduce the development of deformity.