Are there systematic reviews evaluating recovery protocols for scoliosis surgery?

Research into scoliosis surgery focuses heavily on improving patient outcomes and reducing the physical stress of recovery. One specific approach being studied is Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS). ERAS is a multidisciplinary, evidence-based approach designed to maintain a patient's internal balance and reduce pain after surgery to speed up the recovery process.

What the research says

Multiple systematic reviews have evaluated the effectiveness of ERAS protocols for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). One 2025 meta-analysis of 30 studies involving over 15,000 patients found that ERAS patients had shorter surgical durations, less blood loss, and reached recovery milestones faster than those on traditional paths ⁶. These milestones included earlier walking, faster removal of catheters, and shorter hospital stays ⁶. Additionally, this study found that ERAS patients had lower complication rates and lower pain scores in the first two days after surgery ⁶.

A 2021 systematic review also analyzed the impact of ERAS on patients undergoing spinal fusion for AIS ⁷. This review specifically looked at how these protocols affected the length of hospital stays, complication rates, and readmission rates ⁷. Other research is currently being planned to further evaluate ERAS protocols in scoliosis surgery, specifically looking at metrics like pain intensity, opioid use, and patient satisfaction ¹.

What to ask your doctor

• What specific recovery protocols, such as ERAS, are used for my surgery?
• How do these protocols compare to traditional recovery methods in terms of hospital stay length?
• What are the expected milestones for walking and other activities after my procedure?
• What methods are used to manage my pain and reduce the need for opioids during recovery?