UNC Health provides expert care in all aspects of spinal deformity. Surgical techniques used include pedicle subtraction osteotomies, Smith-Peterson osteotomies, Ponte-type osteotomies and vertebral column resection. We also treat patients plagued by kyphosis (hunchback) of the neck or back. This results in the inability hold one’s head straight, and maintain an erect posture. Surgical intervention is sometimes necessary to correct this deformity.

Our spinal neurosurgery team treats the following spinal deformities:

• Adult degenerative scoliosis

• Adult idiopathic scoliosis

• Adolescent scoliosis

• Scheuermann’s kyphosis

• Severe lordotic deformities

• Severe kyphotic deformities

• Failed-back syndrome

• Flat-back syndrome

• Chin-on-chest kyphotic deformity

• High-grade spondylolisthesis

• Ankylosing spondylitis

• Rheumatoid arthritis

What is Scoliosis?

UNC Neurosurgery treats patients with spinal deformities that sometimes require surgery, including adult and adolescent scoliosis. Scoliosis is a curve in the spine often diagnosed during childhood or adolescence. When the condition begins or is diagnosed post puberty, it is called adult scoliosis. Scoliosis causes a curve in the spine that puts stress on the joints and causes pinched nerves resulting in moderate to debilitating back pain. It can also result challenges maintaining a normal posture.

Our Team

Michael Galgano, MD

Director, Spinal Oncology & Spinal Deformity
Vice Chair Hillsborough Operations
Chief Quality Officer
Clinical Associate Professor