Orthopedic Surgeon in Boca Raton – Spine disorders such as adult scoliosis and kyphosis are usually treated by reconstructive spine surgery. Scoliosis is a sideward curving of the spine, while kyphosis is characterized by a forward curve that hunches the back. For milder cases, physicians may recommend conservative (i.e. nonsurgical) treatment such as physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medication. If the symptoms become debilitating or the pain becomes intolerable despite conservative treatment, surgery to straighten and fuse the spine may become necessary. This is achieved by placing implants, such as screws and rods, in and along the spine to fixate it, and adding bone grafts and specialized spacers between the vertebrae to facilitate the fusion of the bones together.
1. Before the surgery
There are a couple of things you need to do before the surgery. Of course it needs to be discussed in detail with your Orthopedic Surgeon in Boca Raton. We are just listing common activities just to give you an idea on what to expect. The important thing you need to remember is that after your surgery, basic activities, such as bending or twisting your body, lifting objects, is impossible. Therefore, it is wise to prepare your home for your recovery period beforehand. Make sure you have someone to assist you on regular basis. It is also recommended to put anything you may need within easily reachable distance. You need to keep it in mind that your mobility will be seriously affected during the first week of your recovery and prepare accordingly. Moreover, you will need to do some basic tests, such as blood test, EKG, undergo a basic medical evaluation by your internist, etc. Your Orthopedic Surgeon in Boca Raton will advise you on any test you may need to do. Important note – no food or drinks are allowed the night prior to your surgery.
2. After the surgery
Following the surgery, you will be put in the recovery room. What can you expect? Don’t worry if swelling occurs anywhere in your body. It is a natural post-surgery effect due to positioning of the body during the procedure plus IV fluids. You will be closely monitored during the first few days, so you can expect heart monitor and IVs to be there. It may also be necessary for you to have chest tube to prevent fluids accumulating in your lungs. You won’t be able to eat and drink at first, but after a few days, you will be slowly returning to eating your normal diet. As far as the pain management goes, you will likely be put on morphine to make you feel comfortable, but it all depends on how you feel and what you and your Orthopedic Surgeon in Boca Raton decide.
3. Recovery
Be aware that you may experience fatigue and tiredness a few weeks after the surgery. Take it easy. The best thing you can do to quicken your recovery is walking. At first, you will of course need an assistance from someone and you will need to use a wheeled walked. It is a great exercise to strengthen your muscles plus it helps the digestive and cardiovascular systems. Most patients are able to return to desk-type work as soon as 4-6 weeks after the surgery1. During that time, your Orthopedic Surgeon in Boca Raton will be there for you to answer any of your questions and assist you in any way possible.
Orthopedic Surgeon in Boca Raton – Best orthopedic specialists in Florida
Our orthopedic doctors at Orthopedic Surgery Associates have vast experience with spinal surgeries, so they will be able to determine whether your condition requires surgery or not. And if it does, do not worry – you’re in good hands! In fact, you are in the hands of some of the best orthopedic specialists in Florida. We are one of the most advanced orthopedic groups in Florida and nationwide. Our orthopedic surgeons are proudly serving patients with orthopedic injuries in the following Palm Beach County (Boynton Beach and Boca Raton):
You can find us at these locations:
Boca Raton Location Boynton Beach Location
1601 Clint Moore Road 2828 S. Seacrest Blvd. Suite 104/204
Boca Raton, FL 33487 Boynton Beach, FL, 33435
T: (561) 395-5733 T: (561) 734-5080
F: (561) 369-1332 F: (561) 369-133
