New Jersey Scoliosis Surgery

Take a proactive step toward restored spinal alignment and comfort at our Englewood location.

Scoliosis Surgery in New Jersey

The human spine contains natural curves that help balance the body's weight above the pelvis and hips. While these gentle arcs allow us to move and stand upright, certain individuals develop significant side-to-side curvature (scoliosis) that can't be fixed simply by adjusting posture. Instead, the spine may look more like a “C” or “S” shape on an X-ray, occasionally altering head and trunk alignment relative to the hips.

If you'd like to learn more about scoliosis surgery in New Jersey and your potential options, call our Englewood office to schedule a personalized consultation.

The Human Spine's Natural Curves

Although normal spinal curvature slightly arches the lower back, some people experience irregularities that cause progressive scoliosis. This deviation is not caused by poor posture and may lead to balance issues, pain, and—in severe cases—breathing or cardiac complications. Early diagnosis and consistent monitoring are crucial, especially for children and adolescents whose skeletal structures continue to develop.

What Are the Types of Scoliosis?

Scoliosis can emerge at various stages of life:

Pediatric Forms

Juvenile, congenital, and adolescent scoliosis are the primary types of pediatric scoliosis. Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is especially prevalent, and ongoing research suggests there may be a genetic element at play.

Adult Scoliosis

Adult scoliosis may arise from untreated childhood scoliosis or result from degenerative spine conditions, such as disc disease or osteoarthritis.

What Are My Treatment Options for Scoliosis?

Not everyone with scoliosis requires surgery. Younger patients still in their growth phase may benefit from bracing to prevent further curvature. In other cases, conservative measures—like physical therapy or careful observation—might be enough. When the curve significantly worsens, or if lung and heart function could be compromised, surgical intervention may be recommended. Dr. Stieber customizes each treatment plan based on physical examinations, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, CT scans), and the degree of curvature present.

About Scoliosis Surgery

Scoliosis surgery typically involves stopping further progression of the curve and achieving better spinal alignment under general anesthesia. A specialized monitoring system tracks nerve and spinal cord function throughout the procedure, helping protect these vital structures from injury.

Fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray) guides the placement of screws and rods, while a cutting-edge robotic system may be used for enhanced precision.

Depending on your unique needs, the surgeon can approach the spine from the front (anterior), back (posterior), or side (thoracoscopic). Sometimes removing discs (discectomy) or reshaping bone (osteotomy) is necessary to maximize correction. Once the spinal hardware is placed, a bone graft is inserted between the upper and lower vertebrae. Over time, the body's healing processes fuse the bones around the implants, creating a more stable, properly aligned spine. Postoperative X-rays ensure accurate curve correction and confirm that all implants are in ideal positions.

What Types of Bone Grafts Are Available?

There are several different types of bone grafts available for scoliosis surgery.

Autograft: The patient's own bone, often taken from the surgical site or hip.
Allograft: Donated bone from a certified bone bank.
Bone Graft Substitutes: Synthetic or engineered materials available in various forms.

Dr. Stieber will discuss these choices with you before surgery, weighing factors like healing potential, convenience, and suitability for your situation.

What Should I Expect After Surgery?

Following the operation, you'll be moved to a recovery area where nurses track vital signs, such as pulse, breathing, blood pressure, and pain level. Pain medications may be administered through an IV or taken orally, helping you stay as comfortable as possible. The team will guide you in how to move safely, typically prohibiting heavy lifting, twisting, or bending during the early healing phase.

What Is the Recovery Like?

During the first few weeks at home, you'll likely need help with daily activities. Dr. Stieber may prescribe a back brace to support the spine while fusion takes hold. Around the two-week mark, you'll return for a follow-up visit.

At that time, he'll evaluate your incision, monitor overall progress, and provide a custom plan for resuming school, work, or other daily routines. Most patients steadily regain mobility, with continued improvements seen over several months.

Why Choose Dr. Stieber for Addressing Scoliosis?

Dr. Jonathan Stieber is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon recognized for his commitment to patient outcomes and advanced surgical methods. Serving as Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at NYU School of Medicine and Director of the Spine Center at OrthoManhattan, he has earned distinction as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor and a New York Magazine Best Doctor. His patient-focused practice offers a broad range of services, including minimally invasive techniques and robotic guidance systems, to ensure each individual receives customized care and optimal results.

Reach out today to take the first step toward a more balanced spine and a healthier, more confident future.