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I'm thinking about having surgery to fuse my spine because of a disabling scoliosis. Is there a one-size-fits-all type of operation for this problem? Do I need to see more than one surgeon to find out what my options are?

Adult spinal deformities are a complex and challenging problem for both patients and surgeons alike. Right now our knowledge and understanding of the best approach with these conditions is fairly limited.

Scientists are trying to develop a classification scheme to help label conditions that are alike. They hope to find a common language to talk about each condition. In this way, studies could be done at different clinics and hospitals using the same ways to group, describe, treat, and compare patient results.

But the problem is that each patient has his or her own unique deformity. There are differences in the location and severity of the spinal changes. And even when two or more patients have a similar condition, their symptoms can vary greatly.

Some may have pain while others do not. The impact of the condition on the patient's life, function, and level of disability can also vary widely. One type of surgery may be beneficial to some, but not all, patients.

Studies are just beginning to be published showing patterns in treatment and outcomes based on one or two classification methods. The type of deformity and amount of imbalance may help direct the surgical approach and technique used. Each surgeon chooses the surgical strategy that bests suits the patient's needs and his or her own expertise and experience.

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