Congenital Scoliosis
Congenital scoliosis is a spinal curvature that results from anomalies or abnormally developed vertebrae, the building blocks of the spinal column. These anomalies develop in utero at four to six weeks gestation. The number of abnormal vertebra, their location and their growth potential are what determine how severe the curvature will become. For mild single vertebra anomalies, a deformity may not be outwardly visible and may be picked up by a chest x-ray. In patients with multiple vertebrae anomalies, the trunk may be severely shortened and severe spinal deformity may be apparent. If the curvature is allowed to progress untreated, it can result in lung disease and/or neurological problems.
Patients with congenital scoliosis also tend to have a high rate of abnormalities in other organ systems. Therefore, even if they seem to be in good health, they are sent for additional testing prior to surgery.
Early surgery is often recommended in cases of congenital scoliosis so that the child can avoid more extensive surgery later on, minimizing the number of levels of the spine that will eventually require fusion and treatment. It also preserves long-term growth of the spine, spinal balance and alignment, and lung function and development.
Non-surgical scoliosis treatment can consist of bracing in order to prevent the curve from getting progressively worse.
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