Spinal Fusion Surgery in Antalya, Turkey

What is spinal fusion surgery?

Spinal fusion surgery is a well-established and widely performed procedure used to correct adolescent idiopathic scoliosis when spinal curves are large, rigid, or when a child has finished—or is close to finishing—growth.

During the operation, the surgeon carefully realigns the spine and permanently joins selected vertebrae together so they heal into one solid, stable structure. This stops the curve from worsening and helps restore balanced posture for the long term.

Spinal fusion has been performed for many decades and remains the gold-standard treatment for certain types of scoliosis.

What conditions does spinal fusion surgery in Turkey treat?

Spinal fusion is an effective treatment option for many spinal problems that cause pain, numbness, weakness, and limited movement. Spinal fusion is used to treat conditions affecting the vertebrae themselves, the joints connecting them, and the soft tissues, leading to nerve compression and imbalance, and helps the spine function more balanced and pain-free.

Some conditions treated with spinal fusion surgery in Turkey:

• The most common reasons for seeking fusion are neck and lumbar disc herniations.
• Spondylolisthesis (spinal slippage)
• Another important issue is instability, meaning the spine moves more than it should.
• Scoliosis may require fusion in both children and adults, especially when the spinal curvature progresses and disrupts balance.
• Spinal stenosis and foraminal stenosis are narrowing problems in the spinal cord.
• Spinal fractures.
• Spinal tumors.
• Infections in the spinal canal.

Who may be a candidate for spinal fusion surgery?

Spinal fusion may be recommended for patients who:

• Have larger spinal curves (typically 45–50° or greater)
• Have curves that are rigid or continuing to worsen
• Are nearing skeletal maturity or have completed growth
• Are not suitable candidates for growth-modulating procedures such as VBT

Patients with active infection, certain medical conditions, or other risk factors may require additional evaluation before surgery.

Only a detailed clinical assessment—including imaging studies and growth evaluation— can determine whether spinal fusion is the right approach.

How is spinal fusion surgery performed in Turkey?

During spinal fusion surgery in Turkey, an incision is made along the back. Titanium screws and rods are placed to gently straighten and stabilise the spine. Small amounts of bone—often taken locally during surgery—are placed along the treated vertebrae.

Over several months, these bones grow together, forming a solid fusion. Once healing is complete, the fused section of the spine remains permanently stable, helping maintain correction for life.

Because fusion is permanent, careful planning of which spinal levels to fuse is essential to balance correction with preserved mobility.

Benefits of spinal fusion surgery

Spinal fusion surgery offers several important advantages:

• Reliable and permanent correction of scoliosis
• Prevention of further curve progression
• Improved spinal balance and posture
• High long-term success rates when performed appropriately

For many patients, spinal fusion provides peace of mind by offering a once-and-for-all solution for scoliosis.

Spinal fusion vs vertebral body tethering (VBT) in Turkey

Recovery, activity, and long-term outlook after spinal fusion surgery in Turkey

Recovery after spinal fusion is gradual and carefully guided. Most patients begin sitting and walking within days of surgery and continue improving over the following weeks.

Return to school, sports, and physical activity happens in stages and must be approved by the treating physician. While many patients return to active, fulfilling lives, certain high- impact or contact sports may be discouraged long-term.

Every patient heals at a different pace, and recovery timelines can vary based on the extent of surgery, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation guidance.

Travel arrangements and Spinal fusion surgery cost in Turkey for scoliosis

Spinal fusion surgery cost in Turkey are much more affordable compared to the UK, USA, and Canada. Spinal fusion surgery for scoliosis cost in Turkey can range from approximately US$10,000 to US$20,000. All prices or treatment packages given are estimates and may vary depending on the complexity of the surgical procedure, hospital requirements, and the individual needs of the patient.

If you would like to receive precise information about the cost of spinal fusion surgery in Turkey, you can contact our ViviMedi clinic. Non-medical services such as accommodation, airport transfers, or concierge services are provided for convenience only and are not part of medical treatment.

FAQs about spinal fusion surgery

What is scoliosis, and when is spinal fusion recommended?

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways and may continue to worsen as a child grows. In some cases, especially when curves are large, rigid, or progressing despite other treatments, surgery may be recommended to prevent further progression.

Spinal fusion is typically advised when the curve is severe or when growth-modulating options are no longer suitable. The main goal is to stop the curve from worsening and restore long-term spinal balance.

How is spinal fusion different from vertebral body tethering (VBT)?

Spinal fusion corrects scoliosis by permanently joining selected vertebrae together, so they heal into one solid structure. This provides reliable, long-term stability but reduces movement in the fused section of the spine.

VBT, by contrast, is a growth-guided procedure that preserves motion and is only suitable for children who are still growing. Fusion is often recommended when growth is nearly complete or when curves are too rigid or severe for VBT.

Who is spinal fusion intended for?

Spinal fusion may be recommended for patients who:

• Have larger spinal curves, typically 45–50 degrees or more
• Have curves that are rigid or continuing to progress
• Are near skeletal maturity or have completed growth
• Are not suitable candidates for growth-modulating procedures

Final suitability is determined by a spine specialist after reviewing imaging, growth status, and overall health.

Is spinal fusion a safe and established procedure?

Yes. Spinal fusion has been performed for many decades and is considered the standard and most proven surgical treatment for severe scoliosis.

No surgery is without risk. However, advances in surgical techniques, imaging, and monitoring have significantly improved the safety and outcomes of spinal fusion surgery in Turkey. Your surgical team will explain both the benefits and risks in detail before treatment.

Does spinal fusion surgery in Turkey hurt?

Spinal fusion surhery in Turkey itself is painless because the patient is under general anaesthesia. Some discomfort may occur after the operation, which is a normal part of recovery. The medical team closely monitors the patient and uses appropriate pain management methods to keep comfort at a high level.

What is the success rate for spinal fusion surgery in Turkey?

Turkey is a well-known destination for spinal surgery, especially in cities like Antalya, Istanbul and Ankara. Experienced surgeons and advanced medical facilities contribute to high success rates. Depending on the condition and procedure, reported success rates can reach up to 95%.

How long do I need to stay for spinal fusion in Antalya, Turkey?

The length of stay for spinal fusion surgery in Antalya varies depending on the type of treatment and the necessary follow-up process. On average, you may need to spend between 1 and 2 weeks. Your medical team will plan the timeline according to your individual situation.

How long does recovery take after spinal fusion surgery in Turkey?

Recovery is gradual and varies from patient to patient. Most children spend several days in hospital and continue recovering at home over the following weeks.

Pain is managed with medication and typically improves steadily. Many patients return to school within four to six weeks, depending on comfort and medical advice. Full bone healing takes several months.

How active can my child be after spinal fusion surgery in Turkey?

Activity is reintroduced in stages. Walking and light daily activities are encouraged early, while more demanding physical activity is added gradually.

Return to sports or physical exercise must be approved by the treating physician. Some high-impact or contact sports may be discouraged long-term, depending on the levels fused and individual recovery.

When can my child return to school after spinal fusion surgery in Antalya, Turkey?

Most patients return to school approximately four to six weeks after spinal fusion surgery in Antalya, depending on healing, stamina, and pain control. Your doctor will advise on the safest timing and any temporary activity adjustments.

What if my child has pain after spinal fusion surgery?

Some pain and stiffness are expected in the early recovery period and are managed with medication. Pain typically improves week by week. If pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms, families should contact their medical team.

What are the possible risks of spinal fusion?

As with any major surgery, spinal fusion carries potential risks. These may include:

• Infection or delayed wound healing
• Bleeding or need for blood transfusion
• Implant-related issues such as loosening or prominence
• Incomplete bone healing (non-union)
• Nerve irritation or, very rarely, neurological injury
• Reduced flexibility through the fused spinal segments
• Risks related to anesthesia or hospitalisation

Serious complications are uncommon, but no surgical outcome can be guaranteed. Your surgeon will explain all known risks so you can make an informed decision.

Will the rods or implants need to be removed in spinal fusion surgery in Turkey?

In most cases, spinal implants remain in place for life and do not cause problems. Removal is only considered in rare situations, such as infection or implant irritation.

The implants do not usually trigger airport metal detectors, and your medical team can provide documentation if needed.

Is long-term follow-up required after spinal fusion surgery in Turkey?

Yes. Follow-up visits and imaging are important to ensure the spine has healed correctly and remains stable. Once fusion is solid and recovery is complete, long-term issues are uncommon, but periodic monitoring is still recommended.

Which is the best country for spinal fusion surgery?

Many countries, including Turkey, Spain, Hungary are known for spinal surgery. However, Turkey stands out due to its experienced medical teams and advanced hospital infrastructure. Patients often prefer Turkey because of the high-quality care offered at more affordable prices.

Why should you choose to have spinal surgery in Turkey?

Spinal surgery is a serious decision. People want trust, and Turkey offers that trust, albeit at an accessible rate. There are several reasons to have spinal surgery in Turkey:

• Spinal surgeries in Turkey are performed in hospitals with modern technology and strong infrastructure.
• More than 1,200 neurosurgeons and spinal surgeons working in the country offer a high level of experience in this field.
• Reported success rates for spinal surgeries can exceed 95%.
• Many hospitals have JCI accreditation, which documents patient safety and quality.
• Communication is easy because the majority of doctors and healthcare personnel speak English.
• Diagnostic and treatment costs are more accessible compared to many developed countries.
• Treatment, accommodation, and recovery processes are planned together, offering a comfortable experience for patients.

Final note for families

Spinal fusion is a reliable and effective solution for many children and adolescents with scoliosis, particularly when curves are severe or other treatments are not suitable.

However, every patient's condition is unique, and treatment decisions should always be made in partnership with an experienced spine specialist.