Growth Inhibition

According to the Mayo Clinic, scoliosis surgery inhibits growth in the bones of the spine that are fused. Therefore, a child's growth can be somewhat limited if a spinal fusion is performed at a young age. Height is not drastically affected, however, because a child's growth occurs mainly in the legs. Nevertheless, it is important for the doctor and parent to fully consider the risks and benefits of having early scoliosis surgery. Delaying surgery can result in severe misalignment of bones and organ damage. On the other hand, delaying surgery as long as possible is the best way to prevent growth inhibition from scoliosis surgery.

Chronic Pain

Patients who have been through scoliosis surgery may experience chronic pain for many years after surgery, states the AAOS. This occurs because the spinal bones are fused and can limit movement of the spinal column, which can be painful. In addition, rods and screws are not removed unless necessary. If pedicle screws are used, they may become loose and need to be removed, states Spine-health.com. A patient experiencing chronic pain may first be treated conservatively with either over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications. In more severe cases, prescribed narcotic pain medications may be used.

Pseudoarthrosis

In 5 to 10 percent of patients, the bones may not fuse together, according to Spine-health.com. This condition is called pseudoarthrosis, and it may result in a second surgery to allow proper fusing of the spinal bones. Spine-health.com further states that people who smoke have a lower rate of successful spinal fusions than those who do not smoke. Thus a patient should quit smoking before undergoing a spinal fusion for scoliosis. In addition, he should follow all post-surgical instructions to ensure a successful spinal fusion.