Specialized Spine Team
Our devoted Pediatric Spine Team is composed of the surgical team, led by Dr. Karen Myung, Medical Director, the pain management team, board-certified pediatric nurses, and physical therapists.
Pediatric Spine Services in Nevada
Pediatric Spine Program
St. Rose Dominican Siena Hospital is pleased to announce the launch of the first Pediatric Spine Program in Henderson.
Pediatric Spine Services Team
We focus on treating disorders of the spine in children, including scoliosis and kyphosis, which affect 2% to 5% of children in the U.S.
We understand that a diagnosis of scoliosis may be stressful for the entire family. Our team is here to serve these unique healthcare needs of kids and includes Child Life Specialists and trained professionals who help children cope with the stress and uncertainty of hospitalization and procedures.
We have also invested in child-friendly technology, such as MRI movie goggles that kids can use during imaging procedures that allow them to watch a movie during an MRI as well as talk to the imaging technician. It’s all about making our young patients as comfortable as possible.
Mental & Emotional Support
Our highly trained Child Life Specialists provide patient and family centered care at St. Rose Dominican. They help our young patients cope with the stress and anxiety of being in the hospital. They also provide support to the family and help prepare children for medical treatment.
Continuous healthcare closer to home
The spine procedure and recovery take place in our Siena Campus in Henderson, Nevada. Each child will receive a continuously high level of care provided by a dedicated team, close to home, previously not available in southern Nevada.
Spine Conditions
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Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a common condition in children and teens where the spine curves sideways.
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Kyphosis
Kyphosis is a condition in children and teens where the spine curves outward, causing hunching of the back.
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Spina Bifida
Spina Bifida is a condition where the spine and spinal cord do not develop properly.
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Spine Trauma
Spondylolsis: stress fracture in the lower back, usually from repeated stress or genetics.
Spondylolisthesis: dislocation of one vertebra over the one below it, due to untreated Spondylolsis.
What to expect
Spine surgery can either be an open surgery or a minimally invasive procedure. Most spine surgeries take about two to four hours, depending on your specific condition.
Your child’s procedure may involve the placement of screws, pins, cages, or other structures to support their spine. These devices will remain in their spine for the rest of their life. Your child will likely have general anesthesia so they won’t feel any discomfort during the surgery.
Spine Surgery Recovery
After spine surgery at Dignity Health – St. Rose Dominican, you will receive detailed instructions about activity levels, medications, and scheduling follow-up appointments before your child goes home.
Your child may need to wear a back brace or cast to keep their spine stabilized while it is recovering. They may also need to reduce their activity levels. However, the doctor will probably encourage your child to walk regularly. This helps reduce the risk of developing a blood clot in their legs.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation will be part of recovery. Your child will learn how to move properly, reposition themselves, turn over in bed, sit, stand, and walk in ways that protect their spine. It can take several months to fully recover.
*As with any surgery, these benefits cannot be guaranteed, as surgery is unique to each patient and procedure. Always talk to your doctor about every treatment option, as well as the associated benefits and risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may shower 3 days after surgery, however, avoid taking baths to prevent soaking the incision. Gently pat the incision dry. Do not rub or apply lotions or creams to the incision.
It can take several weeks to fully recover. While in the hospital, our team will work with our patients to have them sitting upright within three hours post-surgery.
Yes, the instruments placed during surgery to support your spine will remain in your body for life.
Pediatric Spine Program in Henderson
Dignity Health – St. Rose Dominican Siena Campus
St. Rose Dominican - Siena Hospital is home to the only pediatric spine program in Henderson. The program treated over 170 patients and complements the other pediatric services offered at Siena including the Children's Emergency Room, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), Pediatric Unit and a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Take the next step
Talk to your doctor to find out if your child is a candidate. Find a St. Rose doctor who specializes in pediatric spine medical conditions or call us at 702.616.7797.