Preoperative segmental Cobb angle averaging 34 º at last follow up. Compensatory coronal cranial and caudal curves corrected by 50%. The angle of segmental kyphosis averaged 39º (range, 20º to 80º) before surgery and 21 º (range, 11º to 40º) at last follow up. This represents a 43% of improvement of the segmental kyphosis, and a 64% of improvement of the segmental scoliosis at last followup. One case with initial kyphosis of 80 º continued to progress and required revision anterior and posterior surgery. There were no neurologic complications.
In progressive congenital kyphoisis, early diagnosis and aggressive surgical treatment are mandatory for a successful result. Early treatment minimizes the risks of surgery. Anatomical and physiological pitfalls in the treatment of congenital kyphosis are discussed. Anterior instrumented fusion of congenital kyphosis provides sagital and coronal correction in very young children with low risk of complications.
Background: Congenital anomalies of the chest wall and Sprengel’s shoulder are often associated with congenital deformities of the spine. It has been suggested that extensive rib fusions on the concavity of a congenital scoliosis may adversely affect progression of the spine deformity, thoracic function and growth of the lungs, which can lead to a thoracic insufficiency syndrome. Methods: This is a retrospective study of the medical records and spine radiographs of 620 consecutive patients with