Led by Dr. Sandro LaRocca, New Jersey Neck & Back Institute, P.C., offers scoliosis spinal fusion surgery to patients who have not found relief from alternative remedies. With locations in Lawrenceville, Mount Laurel, North Brunswick, and Wall Township, we proudly offer this state-of-the-art procedure to patients from throughout Central New Jersey and beyond.

About Scoliosis Spinal Fusion Surgery

Scoliosis fusion surgery is a procedure designed to correct your spine’s curvature. While the spine is meant to curve in a specific pattern, certain conditions can interrupt the natural arrangement of vertebrae. The resulting abnormality can be uncomfortable, and for some, highly disruptive to their quality of life. Most incorrect spinal configurations are the result of the following conditions:

• Disc degeneration: Aging, overuse, and injury can weaken spinal discs, damaging their ability to absorb shock and facilitate flexibility. Over time, this may impact the shape of your spine. Symptoms may include:
  • Discomfort in the buttocks, thighs, and legs that worsens when standing
  • Discomfort in the lower back or neck
  • Pins and needles sensations
  • Muscle spasms
  • Stiffness
  • Physical deformity
  • Nerve injury
  • Decreased sensation of touch
• Adult degenerative scoliosis: Gradual wear and tear may also impact the shape of facet joints that connect vertebrae. The resulting stress often forces the spine to curve abnormally, and symptoms of scoliosis may include:
  • Discomfort in the back and legs
  • Neurologic dysfunction and nerve damage
  • Weakness
  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Muscle spasms
  • Difficulty walking, sitting, or standing
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Stiffness
  • Physical deformities such as:
    • Curved posture or “humpback”
    • Uneven shoulders or one shoulder blade more prominent in appearance
    • Uneven waist or one hip appearing higher than the other
    • Leaning to one side
    • Protruding rib(s)

If physical therapy, epidural shots, and other pain management treatments have failed to bring relief, scoliosis fusion surgery may be an effective solution.

What to Expect from Treatment

At your first appointment, Dr. LaRocca will begin with a thorough physical exam and conduct advanced medical imaging. He will also review your medical history. This information will enable him to plan the most effective treatment. Dr. LaRocca specializes in three types of scoliosis surgeries, including:

Posterior (Back) Approach

In a posterior approach, Dr. LaRocca accesses the spine through incisions in your back and inserts rods and screws to straighten and stabilize the spine. Next, the bone’s top layer is removed, and a mesh-like cage may be placed in the gap between vertebrae. Graft material is then inserted to enable vertebrae to fuse successfully, eventually allowing the new bone to fill in the spaces between vertebrae. Posterior surgeries also offer the opportunity to perform a laminectomy when needed to address stenosis that is frequently present.

Anterior (Front) Approach

Anterior approaches are used if spinal column realignment is necessary or your spine will need additional support. They may also lead to better fusion and healing rates. In this approach, Dr. LaRocca accesses the spine from the front of the body and replaces affected vertebral discs with bone graft material, which may be organic, artificial composite materials, or sourced from the following:

• Removed vertebrae’s bone
• Portion of bone from the patient’s pelvis
• Bone bank donor

Blended Anterior/Posterior Approach

There are certain cases where Dr. LaRocca may recommend a blended anterior/posterior scoliosis surgery. The exact plan for the procedure depends on various factors that he will discuss with you during your consultation.

The expected recovery time is between three to six months. You may have to limit your physical activity or wear a back brace while you heal. Dr. LaRocca will work closely with you to facilitate a safe and smooth return to normal activities.

Get Started with New Jersey Neck & Back Institute, P.C.

If you or a loved one is struggling with scoliosis and other treatments have failed, New Jersey Neck & Back Institute, P.C., is here to help. We serve Lawrenceville, Mount Laurel, North Brunswick, Wall Township, and the greater Central New Jersey region. Contact us to schedule an appointment and get started with scoliosis spinal fusion treatment.