In reference to the global Scoliosis Awareness Month, Pequeno Príncipe — the largest and most complete pediatric hospital in Brazil — carried out, in early June, a task force of highly complex surgeries that transformed the lives of eight adolescents with severe scoliosis. All patients, aged between 10 and 15 years, are treated exclusively through the Brazilian Public Health System (known as SUS) and were selected based on the severity of their spinal condition and their time on the surgical waiting list.

The adolescents underwent a procedure called spinal arthrodesis, which involves fusing two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine and improve quality of life. Scoliosis is characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine in an “S” or “C” shape. In addition to muscle pain and discomfort, the most severe cases can affect breathing capacity and heart function.

During Spine Week, which concentrated the surgeries of the task force, two procedures were performed each day. Each surgery involved a team of approximately ten professionals and lasted an average of four and a half hours. The Hospital also received support from four guest surgeons, three of whom are former residents of Pequeno Príncipe and are now nationally recognized specialists in treating spinal deformities in different regions of Brazil.

“The impact of this type of surgery on a child’s or adolescent’s life is immense. It is about restoring dignity, allowing them to play, study, and envision a future with greater autonomy. In many cases, the surgery transforms not only the life of the patient but the entire family,” says Luis Eduardo Munhoz da Rocha, head of the Orthopedics Service at Pequeno Príncipe.

Early diagnosis makes all the difference

The causes of scoliosis can be congenital, neuromuscular, idiopathic, or degenerative. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common — accounting for about 80% of cases, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) — and its origin is unknown. When detected early, it is possible to prevent the progression of the spinal curvature and preserve both pulmonary and motor function.

“Severe spinal diseases are increasingly evident in children and adolescents. That is why we emphasize the importance of monitoring their physical development and seeking a diagnosis as early as possible,” highlights Munhoz da Rocha.

A meeting of generations to transform lives

Spine Week also holds a symbolic meaning: It brings together generations of professionals trained at Pequeno Príncipe Hospital itself. “Some of these surgeries require extremely intense physical and emotional effort. It would be too demanding for the team to do everything alone. That’s why we invited colleagues who completed their residency here and are now national references in scoliosis treatment. In addition to assisting with the procedures, this reunion represents a valuable exchange of knowledge,” emphasizes Luiz Müller Ávila, orthopedic specialist at the Hospital.

A service with history, education, and leadership

The Orthopedics and Traumatology Service at Pequeno Príncipe Hospital is the largest in Brazil exclusively dedicated to pediatrics and a national reference in scoliosis treatment. Operating since 1969, it was the second service in Paraná to offer a medical residency program in the field, officially recognized by the Brazilian Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology and by the Ministry of Education.

Currently, the service has a team of 20 physicians and an infrastructure that supports large-scale surgeries like those performed during the task force. In the surgical center, one of the most modern operating rooms in Brazil is equipped with a fluoroscopy system (C-arm) and surgical tables adaptable to different types of procedures.

“This task force is more than just a one-time initiative. It embodies our commitment to delivering excellent care, providing high-level professional training, and offering comprehensive care for our children and adolescents,” concludes Ávila.