Scoliosis Correction in Turkey: Surgical and Non-Surgical Approach with Cost

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways instead of straight, which can affect posture, movement, and even breathing in severe cases. Some people may need only exercises or braces to manage it, while others require surgery to correct the curve. With advanced medical techniques and affordable treatment options, Turkey has become a popular destination for scoliosis correction, offering both surgical and non-surgical solutions.

Looking for expert scoliosis treatment at an affordable cost? International Clinics in Turkey offer advanced surgical and non-surgical scoliosis correction with top specialists and world-class care. Contact us today for a free consultation and start your journey toward a healthier spine

What is scoliosis?

In the normal alignment of the spine, when viewed from the side, it has a curved shape resembling the letter "S." These natural spinal curvatures have fixed angles and degrees, allowing them to perform their physiological function without putting pressure on the nerves or surrounding organs.

Scoliosis, on the other hand, is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine that exceeds the standard limit.

This deviation can affect the shape and function of the spine and may damage vital organs such as the heart and lungs, especially in severe cases that impact breathing or movement.

Causes of scoliosis

1. Idiopathic Scoliosis

This is the most common cause, accounting for about 80% of cases. It is often diagnosed during adolescence and may have a genetic component, especially if there is a family history of the condition.

2. Congenital Scoliosis

It results from abnormalities in spinal development while the fetus is in the womb, leading to a permanent curvature from birth.

3. Neuromuscular Scoliosis

This type occurs due to conditions affecting the nerves and muscles, such as:

• Cerebral palsy
• Muscular dystrophy
• Spinal cord injuries

Weak muscles cause the spine to lose its ability to maintain proper alignment.

4. Degenerative Scoliosis

It typically appears in adults due to the wear and tear of spinal discs or vertebrae with aging. It is often accompanied by chronic pain due to nerve compression.

5. Injuries and Diseases

Such as: Vertebral fractures from injuries and Diseases causing infections or tumors in the spine

Symptoms of Scoliosis

The symptoms of scoliosis vary depending on the severity of the curvature and the patient’s age. Common signs include:

1. Visible Structural Deformities

• Noticeable spinal curvature when viewed from the back
• Uneven shoulders or hips
• One side of the rib cage protruding when bending forward

2. Back Pain

• More common in advanced cases or adults
• May worsen with prolonged standing or physical activity

3. Breathing Difficulties

• Occurs in severe cases where rib cage compression reduces lung capacity

4. Changes in Walking Pattern

• The spinal curvature can affect body balance and movement

5. Psychological Impact

• The physical appearance of scoliosis may affect self-confidence, particularly in teenagers

Types of scoliosis

Lumbar Scoliosis

Lumbar scoliosis is an abnormal curvature in the lumbar vertebrae (the lower part of the spine). It can cause lower back pain and hip asymmetry.

In some cases, it may be associated with spinal cord issues, such as a spinal tumor, which can increase nerve pressure and worsen symptoms.

Thoracic Scoliosis

Thoracic scoliosis affects the thoracic vertebrae (mid-back), often leading to shoulder imbalance and the protrusion of one shoulder blade.

Thoracolumbar Scoliosis

This type of scoliosis is relatively common and involves both the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae.

Scoliosis severity

Scoliosis (spinal curvature) is classified into four main categories based on the degree of spinal deviation from normal alignment:

1. Mild Scoliosis (10-25 degrees)

• Considered mild when the curvature is minimal and usually does not cause noticeable symptoms.
• Some asymmetry in the shoulders or waist may be observed, but treatment is generally not required.
• Regular monitoring is necessary to track any progression.

2. Moderate Scoliosis (25-40 degrees)

• The curvature becomes more noticeable and may cause symptoms such as back pain or shortness of breath.
• A spinal brace is often recommended to prevent worsening, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary.

3. Severe Scoliosis (40-50 degrees)

• The curvature is significantly pronounced, leading to more severe symptoms like chronic back pain and significant breathing difficulties.
• Surgery is often required to correct the curvature and alleviate symptoms.

4. Critical Scoliosis (Over 50 degrees)

• The curvature is extremely severe, potentially affecting lung and heart function, leading to serious complications.
• Urgent surgical intervention is required to prevent life-threatening risks.

The severity of scoliosis varies based on the degree of spinal curvature, which is measured using the Cobb angle—an angle determined through X-ray imaging.

Correction of Scoliosis

The choice of scoliosis treatment depends on several factors, including:

• The degree of spinal curvature
• The patient’s age
• Overall health condition
• Associated symptoms
• The impact of scoliosis on daily life and vital functions

Surgical and Non-Surgical Scoliosis Correction

Treatment options vary based on the severity of the curvature, the patient’s age, and overall health.

While non-surgical treatments for scoliosis primarily focus on posture correction and preventing curve progression, spinal surgery involves a more significant change in both the shape and function of the spine, aiming to achieve long-term stability and correction.

Non-surgical scoliosis correction

1. Scoliosis correction brace

Braces are used to slow down the progression of scoliosis in children and adolescents who are still growing. They help stabilize the spine and reduce the need for surgery in the future.

2. Scoliosis correction exercises

Specialized exercises for scoliosis help improve muscle balance, strengthen back muscles, support the spine, reduce pain, and enhance posture.3.

Surgical Scoliosis Correction

Surgery is considered for severe cases where the curvature exceeds 40-50 degrees. The procedure involves correcting the deformity using metal rods and screws to stabilize the spine and ensure proper alignment.

Spinal fusion surgery is the primary treatment for severe scoliosis, aiming to correct the curvature and prevent further progression.

Depending on the position of the scoliosis, the procedure can be a lumbar, thoracic, or thoracolumbar spinal surgery.

During the procedure, an orthopedic surgeon aligns the spine as much as possible and stabilizes it with metal rods and screws. A bone graft is then placed to help fuse the vertebrae over time.

Within approximately a year, the bones heal and fuse permanently, preventing further curvature.

The metal rods remain in the back without causing harm, and removal is rarely needed unless complications arise.

Anterior vs. Posterior Surgical Scoliosis Correction

Scoliosis correction surgery can be performed using anterior (front) or posterior (back) approaches, depending on the severity and location of the curvature.

The anterior approach involves operating through the chest wall, while the posterior approach requires accessing the spine through the patient's back.

Anterior Scoliosis Correction (ASC)

In Anterior Scoliosis Correction (ASC), the surgeon accesses the spine from the front, either through the abdomen or the side of the chest.

This approach minimizes disruption to the back muscles, allowing for faster recovery and better mobility preservation compared to posterior fusion.

ASC is particularly preferred for anterior thoracoscopic correction in idiopathic scoliosis and is most suitable for patients with thoracic or thoracolumbar scoliosis.

Posterior Scoliosis Correction

In the PSC approach, the surgeon accesses the spine through an incision in the back. This method is primarily used for severe spinal curves, especially in adolescents, as it provides strong correction, long-term stability, and effective curve management.

The procedure typically involves spinal fusion with rods and screws to straighten and stabilize the spine.

Anterior and posterior scoliosis correction

In some cases, a combined approach is necessary, where the surgeon first corrects the scoliosis using the anterior approach and then stabilizes and fuses the spine through the posterior approach.

This technique is often reserved for severe or complex curves that require additional structural support to ensure long-term stability.

Discover more about: before and after spinal fusion surgery

Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Correction

Minimally invasive scoliosis surgery helps correct an abnormal spinal curve using advanced techniques that reduce tissue damage.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes several small incisions along the back and may use an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera, to visualize the spine.

A tubular retractor is then inserted to allow access with specialized tools. Techniques such as vertebral body tethering (VBT) and percutaneous pedicle screw fixation help realign the spine while preserving flexibility.

Compared to traditional scoliosis surgery, minimally invasive spinal surgery approaches result in less blood loss, less muscle disruption, smaller scars, and faster recovery than the prolonged traditional spinal fusion recovery timeline , making them a preferred option for eligible patients.

Scoliosis Correction Cost

The cost of scoliosis correction surgery varies based on the country, hospital, and specific procedure.

In Turkey, the price ranges from $13,000 to $14,000, with standard surgical treatment costing around $13,000, while more extensive procedures can reach $14,000.

In the U.S., costs can range from $50,000 to $150,000, whereas in countries like India, the price is generally lower, ranging from $15,000 to $40,000.

Factors such as the surgical technique, hospital stay, surgeon’s expertise, and post-operative care influence the final cost.

International patients often choose Turkey for its affordability and high-quality medical care

FAQs

• How is scoliosis treated in Turkey?
  Turkey offers both non-surgical treatments like braces and exercises and surgical options such as spinal fusion and minimally invasive correction at affordable prices.

• How much does it cost to get rid of scoliosis?
  Scoliosis treatment costs vary. In Turkey, surgery costs $13,000–$14,000, while in the U.S., it ranges from $50,000 to $150,000. Non-surgical treatments are cheaper.

• Which country is best for spine surgery?
  Countries like the U.S., Germany, Turkey, India, and South Korea are known for high-quality spine surgeries, with Turkey offering affordable, world-class care.

• How many hours is scoliosis surgery?
  Scoliosis surgery typically takes 4 to 8 hours, depending on the severity of the curvature and the surgical technique used.