Hello, I'm Dr. Smith, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in spine surgery. I understand you're interested in the cost of scoliosis surgery. It's a complex question, and the answer depends on several factors.

First, let's talk about the types of scoliosis surgery. There are two main approaches:

* Spinal Fusion: This is the most common type of surgery for scoliosis, especially in cases of significant curvature. It involves fusing together the vertebrae in the curved area to stop the curve from progressing and correct the deformity.
* Vertebral Body Tethering: This newer technique uses a flexible tether (a cord-like device) to slow down the growth of the vertebrae on the convex side of the curve. It's often considered for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in patients with curves less than 40 degrees.

**The cost of scoliosis surgery is highly variable and can range from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars.**

Here are some factors that can impact the cost:

* Type of surgery: As mentioned, spinal fusion is generally more complex and involves a longer operating time, making it more expensive than vertebral body tethering.
* Length of the fusion: The number of vertebrae that need to be fused impacts the cost. Longer fusions require more bone graft, instrumentation, and operative time.
* Hospital stay: The duration of the hospital stay can vary depending on factors such as the patient's overall health and the complexity of the surgery.
* Anesthesia: The type of anesthesia used (general vs. regional) and the duration of the procedure can affect the cost.
* Rehabilitation: Post-operative physical therapy and other rehabilitation services are crucial for recovery and can add to the overall cost.
* Geographic location: The cost of surgery can vary significantly depending on the geographic location, as the cost of living and healthcare providers' fees can differ.
* Insurance coverage: The extent of your health insurance coverage will determine how much you will need to pay out of pocket.

**It's important to note that the cost of scoliosis surgery is only one aspect to consider.** You should also discuss the potential risks and benefits of surgery with your doctor to ensure it's the right decision for you.

If you have concerns about the financial implications of scoliosis surgery, I encourage you to:

* Talk to your insurance provider: Understand your coverage and any deductibles or co-pays you might be responsible for.
* Consult with a financial advisor: They can help you plan for the potential costs and explore options for financing if needed.
* Consider a second opinion: Getting a second opinion from another orthopedic surgeon can provide you with additional information and help you make an informed decision.

Remember, the cost of scoliosis surgery is a significant investment, but it can also improve your quality of life and prevent further complications.

I hope this information is helpful. If you have any other questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to ask.
read more >>

According to a study of hospital charges to more than 76,000 patients, published in the medical journal Spine , the average costs to the patient for scoliosis surgery were about $113,000.read more >>