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How do I Become a Scoliosis Surgeon?

Haven Esme
Haven Esme

A scoliosis surgeon is a medical professional who specializes in correcting curvatures in the spine. Scoliosis is not an uncommon condition, but when an individual has severe scoliosis, they may need a surgical procedure in order to improve health and quality of life. Scoliosis surgery is often necessary when a person’s physical ability has become limited due to their scoliosis.

In some cases, the scoliosis is so severe that other complications exist that may even endanger the individual’s life. Thankfully, scoliosis surgeons are essential at treating and correcting severe scoliosis, and giving patients the opportunity to enjoy greater comfort and straighter posture.

A residency provides hands-on training for scoliosis surgeons.
A residency provides hands-on training for scoliosis surgeons.

Extensive education is necessary for individuals wishing to become a scoliosis surgeon. Prospective scoliosis surgeons must be willing to go to school for at least a decade before working in a professional capacity. The first educational step to become a scoliosis surgeon is to obtain a bachelor’s degree. Courses in chemistry, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and calculus are all very valuable to the future surgeon later on. These subjects are perfect for premedical study and are essential preparation tools.

Scoliosis causes curvature of the spine.
Scoliosis causes curvature of the spine.

Once a student completes his or her bachelor’s degree, the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is the next step needed to become a scoliosis surgeon. The MCAT is a standardized test that evaluates a student’s proficiency in writing, verbal reasoning, physical, and biological sciences. The higher the individual’s MCAT score, the more likely he or she is to be accepted into a medical school program. Acceptance in medical school is necessary to become a scoliosis surgeon.

Scoliosis surgeons give patients the opportunity to enjoy greater comfort, and straighter posture.
Scoliosis surgeons give patients the opportunity to enjoy greater comfort, and straighter posture.

While attending medical school, students can either work to complete a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic (DO). Either certification will place a person on the path to become a scoliosis surgeon, although the latter is more useful. After medical school, residency is required. Future scoliosis surgeons need on the job training, which is obtained during their residency stint.

Once educational and residential requirements have been completed, scoliosis surgeons can begin to practice medicine. One way that scoliosis surgeons can improve their chances of becoming successful doctors is to join professional organizations for scoliosis. Scoliosis surgeons should also pursue continued educational opportunities. By continuing their education, surgeons can learn about the latest surgical techniques used to treat scoliosis. The medical industry is continuing to evolve, and surgeons must remain up-to-date with the latest developments.

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    • A residency provides hands-on training for scoliosis surgeons.
      By: Franck Boston
      A residency provides hands-on training for scoliosis surgeons.
    • Scoliosis causes curvature of the spine.
      By: laurent dambies
      Scoliosis causes curvature of the spine.
    • Scoliosis surgeons give patients the opportunity to enjoy greater comfort, and straighter posture.
      By: fivepointsix
      Scoliosis surgeons give patients the opportunity to enjoy greater comfort, and straighter posture.