The Challenges of Traditional Scoliosis Surgery
Scoliosis surgery, particularly spinal fusion, is one of the most complex procedures in pediatric orthopedic care. Surgeons must navigate the delicate spinal cord while correcting significant spinal deformities. Traditional methods often rely on intraoperative X-rays and surgeon experience for pedicle screw placement, which can increase the risk of complications such as screw misplacement, excessive blood loss, and prolonged operating room time. Children undergoing these procedures may also face extended recovery periods and higher doses of pain medication, which can delay their return to normal activity.
What Is FIREFLY® Technology?
FIREFLY® Technology is an innovative approach that transforms how surgeons plan and perform scoliosis surgery. Using low-radiation CT scans, this system generates patient-specific 3D models of a child’s spine. These models allow pediatric orthopedic surgeons to design custom drill guides for precise screw placement and spinal deformity correction. By integrating printing technology and pedicle screw navigation into the operating room, FIREFLY® Technology reduces intraoperative radiation exposure and enhances surgical accuracy.
3 Key Safety Benefits for Pediatric Patients
- Enhanced Precision in Screw Placement: FIREFLY®’s patient-specific 3D printed drill guides improve the accuracy of pedicle screw navigation, minimizing the risk of damage to the spinal cord and surrounding structures.
- Reduced Radiation Exposure: Traditional scoliosis surgery may require multiple intraoperative X-rays. FIREFLY® relies on preoperative CT scans and 3D models, limiting intraoperative radiation for both patients and surgical staff.
- Faster and Safer Surgeries: Custom 3D models and drill guides streamline spine surgery, reducing operating room time and blood loss, while ensuring that spinal deformities are corrected efficiently and safely.
How Surgeons at The Pediatric Orthopedic Center Use FIREFLY®
At The Pediatric Orthopedic Center, surgeons integrate FIREFLY® Technology with the Rapid Recovery Pathway for scoliosis surgery. Before surgery, low-radiation CT scans produce detailed 3D models of each patient’s spine. Surgeons then create patient-specific drill guides to optimize screw placement. During surgery, this approach allows pediatric orthopedic surgeons to navigate the spine confidently, ensuring precise rod placement and minimizing risk. The combination of FIREFLY® Technology and Rapid Recovery techniques means most patients can begin walking the next day, experience minimal post-operative pain, and be discharged within 36 hours.
Faster Recovery Times with Advanced Surgical Tech
The Pediatric Orthopedic Center’s Rapid Recovery Pathway, enhanced by FIREFLY® Technology, dramatically improves outcomes for children undergoing scoliosis surgery. By using advanced surgical planning and patient-specific instrumentation, children spend less time in the operating room and experience fewer post-surgical complications. With reduced narcotic use and an emphasis on early mobility, the majority of pediatric patients return home within two days and resume normal activities much sooner than with traditional surgery.
Is Your Child a Candidate?
Not every child with scoliosis will require surgery, but when curves exceed 40 degrees or non-surgical treatments are insufficient, spinal fusion may be necessary. Pediatric orthopedic surgeons at The Pediatric Orthopedic Center assess each case individually, considering spinal deformity severity, overall health, and readiness for surgery. FIREFLY® Technology is particularly valuable for children requiring complex spinal surgery, ensuring safer, faster, and more predictable outcomes.
