Many surgeons work with medical companies as consultants.  They offer their advice, expertise, and ideas for developing new surgical products.  If the surgeons weren’t giving input on what’s actually needed in the operating room, surgical advances might not happen as quickly.

Medical companies usually pay surgeons fees in return for their help in designing products.

Are the surgeons being unduly influenced by those consulting fees from medical companies?

Is this affecting care?

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Question:
I am a 25-year-old Australian male with moderate Scheuermann's kyphosis.  I have seen many specialists to help cope with the condition, and I make sure to stay fit and strong, but it still has had a significant impact on my life—most notably putting an end to my career as a professional pianist.

I want more than anything to have a straighter, more flexible and pain-free back.  I thought this was just a dream until I read the articles about surgery on SpineUniverse.  Those patients look SO much better post-surgery.  My question is, is it too late at age 25 to consider this?  Is there an improvement in flexibility as well as posture?
—DeFuniak Springs, FL

Answer:
Surgery for Scheuermann’s kyphosis at age 25 is not typically warranted because your spine has completed its growth.  However, without knowing the degree of your curvature, this cannot completely be ruled out.

Quick facts on Scheuermann’s kyphosis (for those who don’t know much about it):

• It’s a type of primary kyphosis, meaning that it isn’t caused by another medical condition.
• It’s usually diagnosed during growth spurts, so that’s why it’s commonly diagnosed during adolescence.
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