In spinal fusion the surgeon straightens the spine as much as is safe using rods, screws, and hooks, then places bone graft so the treated vertebrae grow together into one solid segment. Once fused, that part of the spine no longer bends, which corrects the deformity and stops it from getting worse. For Scheuermann’s kyphosis it is reserved for severe, rigid curves (often beyond roughly 70–75°), documented progression, or disabling pain that hasn’t responded to bracing and therapy; the same operation treats large scoliosis curves.
Performed under general anesthesia, usually through an incision down the back (posterior approach). The surgeon places screws and rods, corrects the curve, and lays bone graft along the vertebrae to fuse them. Spinal-cord monitoring is used throughout. It is a several-hour operation with a hospital stay of several days.
A hospital stay of a few days, then a gradual return to activity over several months as the bone fuses. Heavy activity and contact sports are limited during healing. Most people regain a straighter posture and lasting correction, with the fused segment permanently stiffer than before.