Spine Center
The Pediatric Spine Center at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals is recognized as one of Northern California's leading providers of spinal care for young people. Our team of experts is dedicated to treating scoliosis and other spinal disorders in patients ranging from newborns to young adults.
To ensure the best care possible, children are seen by a team of pediatric orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, physical therapists, radiologists, anesthesiologists, rehabilitation specialists, orthotists and prosthetists. Our specialists draw on their knowledge of advanced technologies and treatments – many of which were pioneered at UCSF. We helped develop vertebral body tethering, a surgery for scoliosis with advantages over traditional treatments, and were among the first medical centers in the nation to offer it. As part of UCSF Health, we also collaborate with adult spine specialists to adapt procedures for younger patients and to ensure smooth transitions for those moving from pediatric to adult care.
Patients at our spine center have access to the latest diagnostic and surgical techniques. We use sophisticated imaging methods, including total spine MRI and 3D modeling, to personalize each patient's treatment plan and to guide our doctors as they perform procedures. Our expertise in leading-edge treatments, including CyberKnife radiosurgery, allows us to take a minimally invasive approach for certain conditions.
We know how active kids like to be, so our primary goal is to return them to their normal activities as soon as possible. We're also committed to your child's long-term recovery, and our treatment plans take future growth into account.
What's more, we participate in the Pediatric Spine Study Group, an international program enabling researchers to share data and knowledge, with the goal of improving care for children and adolescents with spine conditions.
Treating scoliosis with or without surgery
We provide comprehensive care for young children with early-onset scoliosis (including infantile scoliosis) and other spinal deformities. Through the spine center, you and your child will have access to innovative approaches based on the latest research, as well as follow-up support related to scoliosis.
While we're fully equipped to provide surgery for those who need it, our specialists start by considering nonsurgical solutions. For example, many children can thrive with braces and other support devices. Should surgery be necessary, we offer leading-edge, minimally invasive procedures for scoliosis. With an ongoing commitment to finding the best option for each child, our diverse team has high success rates in both surgical and nonsurgical treatments.
Our locations (8)
Patient stories
Teen surfer saved from paralysis
Our spine experts played a critical role in preventing paralysis in a teen after his harrowing surfing accident.
New technology gives spine surgeons a live 3D view
With intraoperative scanning, our spine specialists can perform safer, more precise surgery and offer patients like Malaya a faster recovery.
Our team
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Celina de Borja
MD
Primary care sports medicine specialist -
Mohammad Diab
MD
Pediatric orthopedic surgeon -
Nalin Gupta
MD, PhD
Pediatric neurosurgeon -
R. Scott Heidersbach
MD
Pediatric critical care specialist -
Duncan Henry
MD
Pediatric critical care specialist -
Lionel Metz
MD
Orthopedic surgeon -
Gail Shibata
MD, MPH
Pediatric anesthesiologist -
Peter P. Sun
MD
Pediatric neurosurgeon -
Ishaan Swarup
MD
Pediatric orthopedic surgeon -
Kathleen (Kaye) Rimando
RN, BSN
Nurse -
Alix Wilson
PA, MS, MPH
Physician assistant
Awards & recognition
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One of the nation's best for neurology & neurosurgery
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One of the nation's best for orthopedics
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Ranked among the nation's best in 11 specialties
Highlights of our orthopedic care
Kid-focused care
Our entire care team is specially trained to work with children. They understand growth and development, have expertise in pediatric conditions, and are skilled in the treatment approaches – both surgical and nonsurgical – that work best for young people.
A broad network
Our multiple locations across the Bay Area make it easy for families to access care. For those who live farther away, we also offer follow-up care through video visits and referrals to community-based orthopedic surgeons.
Many experts under one roof
At each of our facilities, patients have access to pediatric specialists, physical therapists and occupational therapists.
Care for all ages
We treat the full range of orthopedic concerns in pediatric patients ranging from newborns to young adults. We also ensure seamless care as our patients enter adulthood by coordinating with their new providers.
Plan your visit
What to Bring
- Photo I.D.
- Health insurance card
- Insurance authorization, if required
- Doctor's referral, if required
- Recent test results related to your child's condition
- List of medications, including dosages, plus any your child is allergic to
- List of questions you may have
- Device or paper for taking notes
Related clinics (3)
8
Neurosurgery Program
7
Pediatric Orthopedic Clinic
Support services
Tender wagging care
Our therapy dogs spread joy and smiles at the bedside and throughout the hospital.
Visit Child Life services