The common spinal deformities in spine are
- Scoliosis : lateral bending of spine
- Kyphosis : forward bending of spine
Scoliosis
- Congenital: defective formation of vertebral body
- Idiopathic: definitive cause is not known
- Neuromuscular: underlying cause is a in conditions affecting nervous tissue or muscles leading to scoliosis eg. poliomyelitis, cerebral palsy, spina bifida etc
- Neurofibromatosis
- Collagen vascular disease
Scoliosis can be detected early by a simple test called “Adam’s sign”. The patient is asked to bend forward. A prominence of ribs is seen on one side called rib hump. Scoliosis patients need regular monitoring with serial x-rays. Angles are measured to determine the severity of scoliosis. Surgery is considered once the angle is above 40 degrees. Surgery involves correction of the curve using metalware to obtain a purchase in the vertebrae. This can be performed from the anterior or posterior side. Surgical correction is done along with fusion so that the deformity does not progress.