Edinburgh, Scotland-based Royal Hospital for Sick Children researchers conducted a case study on the outcomes and risks associated with cystic fibrosis patients undergoing corrective surgery for spinal deformities, according to Cystic Fibrosis News Today.
The case study involved a 14-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis and progressive scoliosis. At age 17, she underwent spine surgery.
Case Reports in Orthopaedics published the study.
Here are six takeaways:
1. Prior to surgery, the girl had respiratory, cardiac, anesthetic, hormonal and dietician reviews.
2. Following the two and a half hour surgery, the girl received noninvasive ventilation and chest physiotherapy in an intensive care unit.
3. She also received antibiotics to fight off infections, pain management drugs, pancreatic enzyme supplementation and nutritional support.
4. During a follow-up, the girl reported no back complaints and she had stable respiratory function.
5. Researchers concluded a multidisciplinary specialist team conducting a thorough assessment of cystic fibrosis patients pre-surgery can decrease risks associated with surgery.
6. The study also found cystic fibrosis patients can have positive functional outcomes and correction of spinal deformities with surgery.