Congenital Spinal Deformity

Congenital spinal deformities are caused an asymmetrical failure of development of one or more vertebrae during the embryological development process that is evident as a failure of segmentation, or a combination of both. Congenital scoliosis is the most common congenital deformity, followed by kyphoscoliosis and pure hyperkyphotic deformities. It is estimated that nonprogressive curves constitute a quarter of the cases, with a quarter being mildly progressive and half of the cases being highly progressive. In addition to spinal and musculoskeletal assessment, clinical examination of possible associated anomalies is also necessary, which might require referrals to pediatricians, pediatric surgeons, cardiologists, pulmonologists, and urologists. A spectrum of treatment options ranging from follow-up at regular intervals to early surgical intervention can be used to treat congenital spinal deformities. The choice of appropriate treatment depends on the location and type of the deformity and the age of the child.