Congenital Scoliosis Treatment In NYC & Long Island
New York Spine Institute can help offer guidance and treatment plans for multiple types of spinal conditions including Congenital Scoliosis. We have offices throughout Greater New York City to help assist you in the most convenient way.*
Congenital scoliosis is a less common form of scoliosis, only affecting 1 in 10,000 newborns. It is a spinal deformity that causes a sideways curvature of the spine due to a birth defect. In some cases the spine can be rotated or twisted which causes the ribs to be pulled, forming a multidimensional curve.*
Congenital scoliosis occurs early in development, within in the first six weeks of embryonic formation. Other issues such as kidney or bladder problems may occur with children diagnosed with congenital scoliosis. In some cases, though the defect is present at birth it may go unseen until later in their adolescent years.*
Why Choose NYSI
Quality Care
With a team of dedicated doctors you can be sure that your child will receive only the best care with us here at NYSI. We have customized treatment plans and will be there with you and your family from the initial consultation up until treatment and follow-up care.*
Industry Leaders
Our years of expert treatment and procedures have turned our doctors and surgeons into industry leaders. We can handle everything from common to complex forms of scoliosis here at NYSI, led by our top medical director Alexandre B. de Moura, M.D. FAAOS.*
Multiple Languages
Language barriers will never be a problem for our patients here at NYSI. Our talented staff members speak multiple languages, including: Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, German and Russian.*
The Founder of NYSI Alexandre B. de Moura, MD, FAAOS
Patients know him for his empathy and confidence. Physicians refer to him for his judgment and results. Dr. de Moura has built his reputation on trust, precision, and outcomes that truly change lives.
Early Inspiration
Dr. de Moura's path began with his father—a pioneering orthopedic surgeon whose legacy deeply shaped his passion for spinal care. From a young age, he witnessed how expert hands and compassionate care could transform lives, setting the foundation for a lifelong mission.
World-Class Training
Dr. de Moura received elite surgical training at some of the nation's top institutions, gaining the technical skill and clinical insight needed to treat the most complex spinal conditions. His background combines academic excellence with hands-on expertise.
Founding NYSI
In 2000, Dr. de Moura founded New York Spine Institute to bring comprehensive, multi-specialty care under one roof. His vision was clear: make world-class spine care accessible, coordinated, and deeply patient-focused.
20+ Years of Experience
With over two decades of specialized practice, Dr. de Moura has performed thousands of procedures and guided countless patients through recovery. His deep experience allows him to deliver not just treatment—but true transformation.
Specialist in Complex Spine Conditions
From scoliosis to spinal deformities and degenerative disorders, Dr. de Moura is known for handling the cases others refer out. He's not just a surgeon—he's a problem solver, often sought out when options feel limited.
Understanding the Causes Of Your Congenital Scoliosis
Your child’s pediatrician will typically detect congenital scoliosis during their first examination of birth, due to an abnormality of their spine. Though, for some it can go unnoticed for years until it becomes easily visible to either the child or parents. Congenital scoliosis can be caused when any of the following occur while the baby is in the womb*:
Abnormalities in the vertebres
One or more missing bones in the spine
Partially formed bones
Vertebrae that fail to separate
It is common for children with congenital scoliosis to form other curves in their spine as their bodies way of trying to compensate for the deformity.*
Diagnosing Your Congenital Scoliosis
Typically scoliosis is not painful, which is why it sometimes goes undetected until later in life. Most symptoms are visible curvatures as opposed to any pain. In order to receive optimal care and treatment, early detection is necessary. Some symptoms that patients and families can look out for are*:
Uneven or tilted shoulders
A rotation of the neck causing the head to tilt in one direction
The prominence of the ribs on one side
Uneven waistline/hips
Visible lean to one side
Weakness, numbness or a loss of coordination
A physician will thoroughly review your family’s medical history and perform a physical examination on your child. The forward bend test can detect scoliosis but not the presence of congenital abnormalities. Imaging tests can provide more information, and you may find your child’s physician using one of the following tests*:
EOS imaging uses an ultra-low dose of radiation to produce three-dimensional models from two planar images. EOS images are taken while the child is in an upright or standing position.
X-rays are a common testing tool which will show images of your child’s back and side, showing any curvatures or abnormalities.
Computed tomography (CT) scan uses both X-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (“slices”) of the body. They produce detailed images of the vertebrae.
What Our Patients Have To Say Real Patient Testimonials
Dr. Roberts is the BEST and that’s my personal opinion. He is very hands on, compassion and understanding. I highly recommend his services.
—Anna Thomas
I worked with Dr. Macagnau and he was amazing! Extremely friendly and funny to match his knowledge and guidance with my injury. The rest of the staff was no different, I would high...
I worked with Dr. Macagnau and he was amazing! Extremely friendly and funny to match his knowledge and guidance with my injury. The rest of the staff was no different, I would highly recommend them to anyone with back issues.
—Juan Rolon
Dr. Passias is a very knowledgeable modern spine surgeon. not only is he the brightest in his field, he’s the future for this kind of surgery Made me feel comfortable that I ch...
Dr. Passias is a very knowledgeable modern spine surgeon. not only is he the brightest in his field, he’s the future for this kind of surgery Made me feel comfortable that I choose the right doctor. I Went to see Dr. Passias with 5 herniated discs, pain in neck, shoulder, arm and tangles fingers. Dr. Passias gave me the time to explain and tell him all what I feel about my pain and he was lesson to all off it he makes me feel friendly He is the doctor I can trust He take the pain away from me GOD BLESS Him
—Mohamed Haridy
“If I can help one person and say you’ll make it through this, go to them, they will help you. I would help you to let you see what it is like on the other side of the fence when s...
“If I can help one person and say you’ll make it through this, go to them, they will help you. I would help you to let you see what it is like on the other side of the fence when someone goes through so much injury and trauma and then in turn, feels like I do. If you can just meet one doctor, please meet Dr. de Moura.”
—Annette
“I was having severe chronic back pain daily. This went on for almost fifteen years. As soon as I met Dr. Macagno I said, “that’s the guy.” I eventually had a spinal fusion L4/5 an...
“I was having severe chronic back pain daily. This went on for almost fifteen years. As soon as I met Dr. Macagno I said, “that’s the guy.” I eventually had a spinal fusion L4/5 and S1. This was a ten-hour procedure. I exceeded both Dr. Macagno and the hospital staff expectations. Instead of walking a few steps, I easily walked the full length of the hospital halls and climbed stairs almost immediately after surgery. I am so happy to have met Dr. Macagno. I sing his praises every day and I always post on social media about how amazing I am doing every year on the anniversary of my surgery.”
—Gregg
“My reason for writing to you is to express my appreciation for the concern and encouragement you gave me following my surgery. Your visits to me early in the morning and your care...
“My reason for writing to you is to express my appreciation for the concern and encouragement you gave me following my surgery. Your visits to me early in the morning and your careful supervision of my recovery were a strong indication of the genuine concern you have for me. During my later years, I’ve had numerous associations with doctors and a variety of experiences. I can honestly say that I could not have received better treatment than I received from you.”
—L.B.
“Please accept my sincere gratitude for helping me overcome a very serious back problem that I’d had for many years. You were highly recommended to me, and you certainly lived up t...
“Please accept my sincere gratitude for helping me overcome a very serious back problem that I’d had for many years. You were highly recommended to me, and you certainly lived up to your reputation. My friend was right: You’re very good at what you do. Thanks again, and although you’re a very nice man, I hope never to have to see you again.”
—J.B.
“I want to thank you from my heart for all you’ve done for me at such a difficult time in my life. You gave me your time and your confident recommendation, and you even offered to ...
“I want to thank you from my heart for all you’ve done for me at such a difficult time in my life. You gave me your time and your confident recommendation, and you even offered to be at my side if and when surgery becomes necessary. You are a fine physician giving to those in need.”
—K.F.
“Dr. Macagno is the Best doctor! Professional and compassionate. Honest and knowledgeable. Worth every star and about 10 more!!!”
—M.C.
“Dr. Alexandre de Moura and New York Spine Institute are absolutely wonderful! I have personally seen the level of personal care and dedication when one of my seriously injured cli...
“Dr. Alexandre de Moura and New York Spine Institute are absolutely wonderful! I have personally seen the level of personal care and dedication when one of my seriously injured clients was treated there (I am a personal injury attorney). He had a terrific recovery and I credit Dr. de Moura and his staff with that.”
—A.Z.
Dr.v is a great doctor !!! From day one he has accessed and managed my pain while acknowledging me not only as his patient but as a person as well. Every Dr office should have a...
Dr.v is a great doctor !!! From day one he has accessed and managed my pain while acknowledging me not only as his patient but as a person as well. Every Dr office should have a Dr. V and the world for patients with pain would be a much better place. I haven’t had a Dr this great since Dr de Mourra who did my surgery In 2013. Thank you Dr de Mourra for referring me to a pain management dr who really cares for my needs as his patient. It has been a tough road . I can now honestly say the road I travel now as a pain patient is much smoother and manageable. Thank you Dr v and NYU.
Depending on the severity of your child’s diagnosis, your doctor may recommend one of the following treatment options.*
Nonsurgical Treatments
Bracing– Braces or casts are effective for some patients whose condition isn’t severe enough for surgery, they can also help control compensatory curves. Bracing is typically recommended for those whose curves are less than 25 degrees.
Surgical Treatments
Growing Rods– Implanting growing rods, which are attached to the spine at two spots, both above and below the curve will help correct any spinal curvatures and allow continuous spinal growth. Most children will return every six months to have their rods expanded.
Spinal Fusion – This is a surgery in which the vertebrae are straightened and fused together with metal implants to help correct and hold the curvature. The surgery allows the fused vertebrae to heal as a solid bone.
Hemivertebra Removal– By removing a single hemivertebra it can allow your child’s spinal curvature to straighten and maintain its growth using metal implants.
With several treatment options to help correct congenital scoliosis, your child’s physician will take many factors into account when diagnosing them. The type of abnormality, the severity of curvatures, and other health conditions will help determine the best plan of care.*
Need a Consultation for Your Congenital Scoliosis?
*The effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment will vary by patient and condition. New York Spine Institute does not guarantee certain results.
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