pediatric spine surgery

Our pediatric spine surgery department is exclusively dedicated to the treatment of babies, children, and teens suffering from spine conditions.

WHAT SETS US APART

Comprehensive treatment

From scoliosis and tumors to fractures and sports injuries, we offer state-of-the-art treatment approaches for virtually every spine condition that affects our younger patients.

State-of-the-art safety measures

Our Long Island pediatric spine surgeons go above and beyond to ensure a safe environment in the operating room – improving patient outcomes and decreasing infection rates.

Advanced diagnostic testing

We are proud to have access to the latest diagnostic technologies, along with time-proven tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, to aid in making a quick and definitive diagnosis.

Personalized guidance

We view our patients like family – especially in our pediatric department. Our specialists will be with you and your child every step of the way, offering guidance and support from your pre-operative appointments throughout the recovery period and everywhere in between.

PEDIATRIC CONDITIONS WE TREAT

You may require spinal fusion if conservative treatments – such as medication, steroid injections, and physical therapy – have been ineffective.

It is a common, final solution for a number of conditions and diseases, including:

OUR PEDIATRIC SURGERY SERVICES

VEPTR

Also known as a vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib, VEPTR is a device that is used when your child’s condition coincides with related lung and chest issues.

VEPTR is an FDA-approved, curved metal rod that attaches to the ribs, spine or pelvis. It straightens the spine and separates the ribs so that the lungs can grow normally. Once the device is in place, your child will need a minor surgery every six months to adjust the VEPTR until his or her bones reach maturity.

Growing Rods

Growing rods are an ideal treatment approach for children younger than ten years old. They are used to correct a spinal curve that is associated with scoliosis or kyphosis in a way that allows the spine to continue growing normally. Once in place, they must be surgically lengthened every six months until your child’s bones are done growing.

Spinal fusion

The spinal fusion procedure is done for patients whose bones have reached skeletal maturity, and thus are no longer candidates for VEPTR or growing rods. It is a serious pediatric spine surgery that takes several hours to complete.

During this procedure, our Long Island surgeons will attach a rod to the curvature to straighten the spine. We will then place small pieces of bone in the area of the rod. As your child heals, the bone fragments will grow together, permanently fusing the spine into its proper, straightened position.

Speak With A Specialist

Visit one of our New York locations.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR CHILD’S SPINE SURGERY

Your child will need special care before, during, and after their surgery.

Here’s how to prepare the entire family for the weeks and months ahead:

Take time off from work

Your child will need a lot of support in the days and weeks immediately following surgery. As such, we recommend taking time off from work so that you can help them recover.

Arrange for help

Ask a friend or family member to help prepare meals or take your other children to school and activities.

Talk to your child’s school

Communicate with your child’s school about the procedure well in advance. Ask if he or she can complete certain assignments during the absence to avoid falling behind.