Spinal Fusion Surgery

Either posterior spinal fusion surgery or anterior spinal fusion surgery is recommended when bracing or casting has been unable to stop the progression of the curve. These curves are usually greater than 50 degrees.

Preparing for Surgery

Our surgery scheduling team will help you schedule a pre-operative appointment with your surgeon that is typically within one month of your surgery date.

A pre-visit appointment with anesthesia will be scheduled within one week of surgery. This appointment is a the main CHKD hospital in downtown Norfolk. You will meet members of our anesthesia team, meet the spine program coordinator, and visit the lab for pre-op blood work. If your child needs a pre-op CT scan, your surgery scheduling and radiology teams will help coordinate at your convenience.

We understand that preparing for surgery can be hard. At CHKD, our spine program coordinator is a registered nurse and will guide you through the process.

Length of Hospital Stay

Our AIS patient average length of stay is 3 days. These patients are on a Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol. Part of our ERAS is to use early mobilization which research has shown to provide a patient with the ability to get back to being a kid quickly.

Our patients sit up on the edge of the bed on the same evening as their surgery. On post-op Day 1, your child will work with physical therapy (PT) twice a day. On post-op Day 2, your child will work with PT three times a day, which will continue until they are discharged home. Patients and parents will learn more about what to expect during PT sessions when they attend their pre-operative class and work with a physical therapist.

Our neuromuscular patients' recovery and length of stay are unique to each patient. Your specialist will discuss the plan of care for your child.

Anticipated Recovery Time

Patients will see their surgeon(s) approximately two or six weeks after surgery. Some patients are ready to attend school for half-days as soon as two weeks after surgery. Most patients are able to return to school and limited activity within four to six weeks.

For the first six months after surgery, patients will be walking only. Their surgeon will determine if they are able to increase their activity after their three-month post-operative appointment.

Driving is prohibited while taking narcotic medication and/or for 6 to 8 weeks after your child’s surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions about Spinal Fusion Surgery

Pre-operative Spinal Fusion Class

If your child has been recommended for a posterior spinal fusion surgery, you are encouraged to attend our pre-operative spine class that will help guide your family through the before, during, and after Posterior Spinal Fusion surgical process. The Spine Program Coordinator, surgeons, physical therapist, peri-op nurses, and child life specialists will walk you through what to expect and answer any questions you may have. These classes are held virtually once a month. Please contact our spine program coordinator at Spine@CHKD.org or call (757) 668-6562 for more information.

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Refer to Our Scoliosis and Spine Program

CHKD's Scoliosis and Spine Program provides care for patients from birth to age 21. No testing or referrals are needed before the first appointment.

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Spine Program DNV Certification-Callout-CHKD

Spine Program Awarded DNV Advanced Pediatric Spine Certification

First in the Nation to Achieve this Level of Certification

CHKD’s Spine Program is the first in the nation to be awarded DNV Advanced Pediatric Spine Certification! This certification designates that our facilities and services meet the standards of care in the complex specialty of spine surgery.