When a young life is limited by a severe spinal deformity, every step forward is a victory. In a landmark case in Abu Dhabi, a 14-year-old girl living with a complex form of scoliosis has regained her posture, confidence, and mobility, thanks to a breakthrough surgical procedure performed at Danat Al Emarat Hospital for Women & Children. As a spine specialist deeply involved in such life-changing cases, I am proud to share the significance of this milestone and what it means for children with scoliosis everywhere.
What is Scoliosis, and Why Early Detection Matters
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine, most often diagnosed during adolescence. While mild cases can go unnoticed, severe or complex scoliosis can lead to visible deformities, back pain, breathing difficulties, and social discomfort.
In this particular case, the patient’s spinal curve had reached an alarming 60 degrees, significantly affecting her daily life. Left untreated, such curves can worsen rapidly during growth spurts, impacting both physical health and emotional well-being.
Complex Scoliosis: A Surgical Challenge
Not all scoliosis cases are the same. Complex scoliosis involves curves that are rigid, rotated, or affect both the thoracic and lumbar regions. These cases require detailed preoperative planning, advanced intraoperative technology, and a skilled multidisciplinary team.
The Abu Dhabi-based team at M42’s Danat Al Emarat Hospital, including experienced specialists in spine surgery, pediatric orthopedics, and anesthesiology, collaborated to ensure the success of this complex procedure. As someone who routinely handles such challenging surgeries, I recognize the level of precision and care that goes into every correction.
Inside the Operation Room: How the Curve Was Corrected
The goal of scoliosis surgery is not just to straighten the spine, but to restore function and prevent long-term complications. In this surgery, real-time spinal cord monitoring was used to ensure nerve safety throughout the procedure. The surgical team performed spinal instrumentation and fusion — techniques that involve placing rods and screws to gradually straighten the spine and hold it in place.
Post-surgery, the young patient saw her curvature significantly reduced, and she experienced no neurological complications — a testament to both surgical skill and technological support.
A New Life for a Brave Teenager
After the procedure, the patient was up and walking within days. Her posture was visibly improved, her confidence restored, and she could return to school and social life with newfound freedom. In my practice here in Abu Dhabi, I see firsthand how such outcomes transform not just bodies, but futures.
Hope for Every Spine
This case is more than just a medical achievement. It’s a reminder to parents and guardians to stay alert to early signs of scoliosis — uneven shoulders, visible curvature, or back pain. The earlier it’s detected, the better the outcomes.
As Dr. Sandesh Kumar, an orthopedic and spine specialist serving patients in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE, my mission is to ensure that children and adults with scoliosis receive timely, expert care that sets them on the path to a healthier, more active life.
Is Your Child Showing Signs of Scoliosis?
If you’ve noticed irregularities in your child’s posture or gait, don’t wait. Early evaluation by a spine specialist can make all the difference. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sandesh Kumar in Abu Dhabi today and take the first step toward a straighter, stronger future.