Scoliosis Spine Surgery Cost In India - Get Cost Estimate

What is Scoliosis Spine Surgery Treatment Cost in India?

Scoliosis is an abnormal S or C-shaped bending of the spine.Approximately 5 million individuals in India have been diagnosed with scoliosis, with 3% of affected individuals being children. To treat this condition, a spine surgeon performs surgery to straighten the back and fix the alignment.

The average cost of scoliosis spine surgery in India ranges between INR 9,00,000 and INR 14,00,000 for Indian patients. For International patients, the cost ranges from USD 17000 to USD 25000. 

What is Scoliosis Spine Surgery Treatment?

The spine, most commonly referred to as backbone, is a long column of bones which extends from the neck to the end of the back. It consists of the spinal cord, vertebrae, joints, and intervertebral discs, along with nerves and tissues. This bone appears straight when viewed from the back and is responsible for maintaining the posture and flexibility of the body. Thus, any deformity in the spine may cause severe discomfort and pain, affecting the patient's lifestyle. One of the spinal conditions is scoliosis.

In this condition, the back appears twisted instead of straight. This abnormality is a prominent symptom seen in children with scoliosis.

Other notable symptoms which occur in terms of physical appearance in scoliosis patients are as follows:

• Head slightly off-centre from the backbone
• Uneven shoulders
• Asymmetrical appearance of the chest
• One hip higher than the other
• One scapula higher than the other
• Asymmetrical backbone
• Visible curve in the backbone

These symptoms occur due to curvature in the spine, the condition termed scoliosis.

Though the cause of scoliosis is idiopathic, i.e. unknown, some of the contributing factors of the scoliosis are as follows:

1. Genetic factors: Genes play a significant role in scoliosis. If a family member has scoliosis, the chances of developing it in upcoming generations increase. 
2. Neuromuscular disorders: Neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy can affect muscle control and balance. When the muscles supporting the spine weaken, scoliosis can result.
3. Congenital abnormalities: Some people are born with spinal deformities that make the spine more likely to curve. Irregularly shaped vertebrae, incomplete spinal formation, or incomplete fusion at puberty can contribute to scoliosis development.
4. Spinal injuries: Severe injury and trauma to the spine significantly affect spinal alignment. Injuries that affect the growth plates or other spinal structures can lead to scoliosis over time.

Early screening and awareness of risk factors such as family history play crucial roles in managing scoliosis and preventing complications associated with it that may arise in later life. Understanding these factors helps a spine surgeon diagnose scoliosis and plan treatment. 

What are the Types of Treatment for Scoliosis?

Scoliosis treatment focuses on eliminating the pain that arises as a result of deformity and preventing the curve from progressing with time. Based on the severity, the following treatment options are available for the scoliosis patient.

Bracing

For children of growing age and adolescents with moderate spinal curves (ranging between 25-40 degrees), a spine surgeon may prescribe a brace to prevent advancement in the progression of the curve. Bracing is a non-surgical procedure in which a brace is usually worn for several hours each day to align the spine.

Most people with scoliosis do not need surgery, as the curve size and bend are small, so doctors suggest braces for them.

Scoliosis spine surgery

From severe to mild cases, where the curvature of the patient is greater than 40-50 degrees and is rapidly progressing, a spine surgeon may suggest a procedure known as surgical fusion. This spine surgery is performed to straighten the spine as much as possible, after which the vertebrae are fused to prevent further curvature. Metal rods, screws, and bone grafts are commonly used to stabilise the spine during the fusion process.

After the surgery, bracing may be suggested to help gain the correct posture of the spine.

Ongoing management

Pain associated with scoliosis can often be managed through medications, physiotherapy, and by modifying postures. This is particularly important for individuals with mild curvature, and the curvature is not showing any significant progress.

Without treatment, the curve may progress and cause certain health complications, such as chronic pain, reduced mobility, and damage to other essential organs, such as the heart and lungs.

What are the Key Factors That Affect the Scoliosis Spine Surgery Treatment Cost in India?

Before undergoing treatment for scoliosis, the patient must be aware of the factors affecting the cost of scoliosis treatment in India, which are as follows-

Type of surgery

Using the latest techniques, a spine surgeon makes small incisions at the back part of the patient to correct an abnormal curve, an approach referred to as minimally invasive scoliosis surgery. With a device called a tubular retractor, they reach the spine with small tools. Then, they insert rods and screws to help make the spine straighter. This technique is comparatively safer and may add expenses to the treatment cost.

Spinal implants

The spine surgeon may also use hard materials like screws, cages, plates or rods to provide support to the spine. This further strengthens the fusion between the vertebrae. These materials might also impact the total expenses involved in scoliosis spine surgery in India.

Hospital facilities and doctor's expertise

Hospitals equipped with advanced amenities and renowned spine surgeons and physiotherapists provide top-class facilities and, hence, charge more. Moreover, the hospital's accreditation and reputation in providing best medical treatment may impact the cost.

What are the Costs Associated with Scoliosis Spine Surgery Treatment Before and After the Procedure?

After performing a physical examination, doctors carry out some tests to confirm the diagnosis. Some health investigations are also performed to see whether the patient is ready for the surgery or not. These may incur some additional expenses to the cost of scoliosis spine surgery in India. It can be categorised into two:

• Pre-surgical examination cost (blood tests, imaging tests such as X-rays, electromyography, osteotomy, DEXA, bone density test, lumbar puncture, etc.): INR 15,000 to INR 20,000 (USD 300 to USD 400)
• Post-treatment medication cost (narcotic pain medication, follow-up appointments, etc.): INR 3,000 to INR 4,000 (USD 50 to USD 100)

What should be aftercare for the Scoliosis Spine Surgery treatment procedure?

After scoliosis surgery, patients must also take additional care of their spine and monitor their spinal movement. Some of these are discussed below.

Restricted movement

After the surgery, the bones in the spinal cord need time to heal and hence must be prevented from further strain. Hence, doctors advise no twisting or bending for a few months. Also, spinal motion has to be restricted; otherwise, severe pain and bone damage may occur. Sometimes, doctors recommend a brace to provide support to the spine during the healing process.

Regular physiotherapy sessions

Doctors recommend physiotherapy after scoliosis spine surgery to restore the spine's mobility, strength, and function. Planned exercises help prevent stiffness and enhance posture, aiding in long-term recovery and quality of life.

Follow-up appointments

It's recommended that patients see the doctor regularly. During this time, doctors monitor the healing progress, assess spinal alignment with imaging, modify the treatment plans, and make suggestions on a gradual return to daily life activities.

Does Insurance Cover Scoliosis Spine Surgery Treatment in India?

Insurance agencies in India cover various surgical procedures, including spine surgery. When your spine surgeon recommends spine surgery for the treatment of scoliosis, your next step is to submit your doctor’s prescription, investigation reports, hospital admission papers to the insurance agency along with your policy papers. The insurance agency will check your claim eligibility and work with the hospital to cover your medical expenses for scoliosis surgery as per their policy terms.

Generally, health insurance policies may cover a portion or all of the expenses, including the cost of the implant, bone tissue and other material used in straightening of the backbone, hospitalisation, surgeon fees, pre-surgical examination, and post-surgery care.

Therefore, it's essential to understand the extent of the insurance coverage and the network of associated hospitals. Otherwise, you might be responsible for covering the remaining expenses on your own or seeking alternative financial means.