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Scoliosis surgery

Posted By Wheatbelt Parent

"Scoliosis surgery"

About: Perth Children's Hospital Royal Perth Hospital / State Spinal and Scoliosis Service

(as a parent/guardian),

At the time of writing this, it marks 12 months since my son's spinal fusion to treat his worsening scoliosis.  He was 14 years at the time and had been wearing a very uncomfortable spinal brace for 23 hours per day for the previous 2.5 years.  Despite the bracing, his scoliosis curve was worsening and we were told his only option was to have spinal fusion surgery.  This was very overwhelming for my son and our family.  A keen musician, my son's greatest fear was that he would never play drums again.

The surgery was challenging but he has had an amazing recovery.  He continues to play drums, guitar and bass.  He can never play contact sport again, he has trouble tying his shoelaces but he is pain free and happy.  We will be forever grateful to the amazing State Spinal Team at RPH, particularly Dr David and nurse coordinator, Trish and Ward 5G RN Mae. My son was always treated with the highest level of care and respect and the team was always happy to answer any questions we had.  A big thank you to the amazing orthotists at PCH, particularly Jemma and Georgia.  

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Responses

Response from Ben Noteboom, Executive Director, Royal Perth Bentley Mount Lawley Group 2 weeks ago
Ben Noteboom
Executive Director,
Royal Perth Bentley Mount Lawley Group

Submitted on 24/08/2026 at 6:04 PM
Published on Care Opinion Australia on 25/08/2026 at 8:51 AM

picture of Ben Noteboom

Dear Wheatbelt Parent

Thank you for taking the time to share your family's experience on Care Opinion.

I recognise what a challenging and emotional journey this must have been for your son and your family, from managing scoliosis with bracing over several years through to the decision to proceed with spinal fusion surgery. I appreciate your openness in describing the impact this had on your son, particularly as a passionate musician concerned about his future.

It is wonderful to hear that, one year on from surgery, your son has made such a positive recovery and is continuing to enjoy playing the drums, guitar and bass. While there are some ongoing adjustments he faces, I am pleased to hear that he is pain free and thriving.

Thank you also for acknowledging the care and support provided by the State Spinal Team at Royal Perth Hospital, including Dr David, nurse coordinator, Trish and Ward 5G RN Mae. Your kind words regarding the care provided across both Perth Children's Hospital and Royal Perth Hospital affirm the dedication, compassion and expertise of the staff involved in supporting patients and their families through complex healthcare journeys.

I will ensure your feedback is shared with all staff members mentioned, as well as their teams. Positive feedback such as yours is greatly appreciated and serves as a valuable reminder of the difference our clinicians and support staff make in the lives of patients and families every day.

Thank you again for sharing your son's story. I wish him continued good health and every success in pursuing his musical passions.

Warm regards

Ben Noteboom

Executive Director

Royal Perth Bentley Group

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Response from Hannah Bres, A/Director Allied Health, Perth Children's Hospital, Child and Adolescent Health Service 2 weeks ago
Hannah Bres
A/Director Allied Health, Perth Children's Hospital,
Child and Adolescent Health Service

Submitted on 25/08/2026 at 10:34 AM
Published on Care Opinion Australia at 11:22 AM

Dear Wheatbelt Parent

Thank you for sharing this update about your son’s progress 12 months after his spinal fusion. It is heartening to hear how well he has recovered, and we are so pleased to know that the surgery was successful and that he is now pain‑free, active, and continuing to enjoy his music.

From a PCH perspective, we are grateful for your kind acknowledgement of the orthotists involved in his care. The staff involved will be very pleased to know that their support contributed positively to your son’s treatment journey, particularly during what was an understandably challenging and emotional period for your family.

Stories like yours highlight the resilience of young people undergoing complex treatment and reinforce the importance of compassionate, coordinated care across teams. We are delighted to know that your son is doing so well, and we wish him continued strength, confidence, and enjoyment in his music as he moves forward.

Warm regards

Hannah

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