Anesthetic Implications for Scoliosis Surgery

Abstract

Scoliosis is a complex spinal deformity that causes the thoracic rib cage to deform, a lateral curvature of the spine, rotation of the vertebral bodies, and angulation of the ribs. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most prevalent kind. The potential of spinal cord ischemia during scoliosis surgery has led to the development of techniques for detecting spinal cord compromise. The reactions different modalities of anesthesia have on potential neuromuscular monitoring have also been recorded. Anesthetists must develop an understanding of the patient's diagnosis and attendant comorbidities and then use the available research to formulate a safe anesthesia plan. This thesis sheds light on the history of spinal surgery, types of surgery, preparation of patients for surgery, blood loss management, and most importantly focuses on anesthesia issues associated with surgical correction of the spine.