Overcoming a severe spinal deformity – NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital

At 16, John Sarcona’s spine was bending by the hour, collapsing onto his heart and lungs and making it extremely difficult to breathe. For years, John had battled severe scoliosis and thoracic kyphosis — or forward rounding of the back — and after 17 unsuccessful attempts to treat his condition, his parents were desperately searching for answers.They found them at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, where a dedicated care team, led by Dr. Lawrence Lenke of the NewYork-Presbyterian Och Spine Hospital, saved their son’s life.