Scoliosis Surgery at Asklepios Clinic St. Georg

At the Asklepios Clinic St. Georg in Hamburg, we approach scoliosis not merely as a curvature of the spine but as a complex three-dimensional challenge that affects a patient’s entire physiological balance. As one of the first centers in Germany to be certified by the German Spine Society, our Interdisciplinary Spine and Scoliosis Center is a European hub for both adolescent and adult deformity correction. Under the leadership of Dr. med. Sven Nagel, our team integrates high-end neurosurgical precision with orthopedic expertise to restore symmetry, alleviate pain, and protect long-term organ function. The foundation of our success lies in EOS 3D low-dose imaging and computer-aided surgical simulation. Before the first incision is made, we create a digital map of your spine to calculate the exact degree of rotation and vertebral tilt. During the procedure, we utilize O-arm navigation, a real-time intraoperative 3D imaging system that acts as a high-precision GPS for the surgeon. This technology allows us to place stabilizing screws and implants with sub-millimeter accuracy, which is crucial when working within the narrow margins of the spinal canal and near major blood vessels. Safety is our absolute priority, which is why every scoliosis correction at St. Georg is performed under continuous multimodal intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM). This "early warning system" tracks the function of the spinal cord and peripheral nerves in real-time throughout the entire surgery. By monitoring electrical signals as the spine is straightened, our surgeons can make immediate adjustments to ensure the patient's neurological integrity is never compromised. This level of vigilance allows us to tackle even the most severe curves (Cobb angles exceeding 60–80°) that might be considered high-risk elsewhere. For younger patients with remaining growth potential, we offer motion-preserving alternatives such as Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT). Unlike traditional spinal fusion, which "locks" the vertebrae into a solid block of bone, VBT uses a flexible cord to guide the spine's growth into a straighter position while maintaining flexibility. For adult patients or those with rigid curvatures, we specialize in 360-degree stabilization and osteotomies (precise bone reshaping), using a mix of microsurgical and minimally invasive techniques to minimize tissue trauma and expedite healing. For scoliosis operation at Asklepios St. Georg, we utilize a premium selection of surgical technologies:Imaging & Navigation. EOS 3D imaging and Medtronic O-arm for real-time robotic-assisted navigation. Safety Systems. Comprehensive 16-channel neuromonitoring to safeguard spinal cord health. Implants. High-strength titanium or cobalt-chromium rod systems and biocompatible tethers for growth modulation. Infection Control. Specialized "germ-free" copper surfaces in patient rooms to minimize the risk of hospital-acquired infections. Post-operative care at St. Georg is a coordinated effort involving specialized pain therapists and physiotherapists. Most patients are encouraged to begin early mobilization within 24 to 48 hours of surgery. Our inpatient stay typically lasts between seven and ten days, during which we utilize a "fast-track" recovery protocol designed to restore independence in daily movements. Because we use advanced closure techniques and specialized wound management, the need for restrictive back braces after surgery is often eliminated, allowing for a more comfortable and aesthetic recovery.