Spine surgeons in both public and private sectors have reported a significant increase in the number of teenage girls requiring surgical intervention to correct severe scoliosis, a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine.
Health screenings in schools were suspended for several months in 2020 as part of the COVID-19 pandemic containment measures, which resulted in the surge in cases. Once health checks resumed, medical professionals diagnosed many children, creating a higher demand for medical interventions.
Delayed Scoliosis Diagnosis Impacts Surgical Intervention
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Jayna, a teenage girl diagnosed with severe scoliosis, recently underwent surgery at the National University Hospital (NUH) six months after the resumption of health screenings. The delay in diagnosis and subsequent treatment has raised concerns among healthcare professionals.
Priscilla Tan, a senior physiotherapist at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), noted an increase in referrals for assessment and management between 2021 and 2022 at the Musculoskeletal Centre. The centre has been working to catch up with the pre-pandemic period when the number of cases was more stable.
Importance of Early Scoliosis Identification and Treatment
According to experts, the school-screening program in Singapore aims to identify, monitor, and treat scoliosis, particularly the type that may require surgical intervention.
Dr. Yue, a specialist in scoliosis, emphasized the significance of early identification. If scoliosis is detected early, children have the potential to prevent progression to a stage where surgery becomes necessary. Instead, they can start wearing braces, which can effectively help manage the condition.
Improved Screening Technologies
In 2020, the NUH satellite clinic at the Health Promotion Board (HPB) introduced an ultra-low dose radiography machine to enhance screening efforts. The introduction of this advanced technology has played a vital role in improving the accuracy of detection and facilitating timely interventions.
Raising Scoliosis Awareness and Educating Parents
Healthcare professionals urge parents to be vigilant and actively participate in school screening programs due to the surge in cases.
Additionally, educating parents about scoliosis and its potential impact on their children’s health is crucial in promoting awareness and, consequently, facilitating early intervention.
Addressing Challenges and Moving Forward
The recent increase in cases among teenage girls in Singapore highlights the importance of uninterrupted health screenings, especially during times of crisis.
To address the backlog of cases caused by the temporary suspension, healthcare facilities are working diligently to manage the growing demand for assessment and treatment.
By prioritizing early detection, raising awareness, and leveraging advanced screening technologies, medical professionals aim to minimize the impact of scoliosis on the lives of affected individuals.
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