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Congenital Spinal Abnormalities
Congenital Spinal Abnormalities

A congenital spinal abnormality is a defect or deformity that develops before birth.  During the fetus’ development, the vertebrae do not properly form.  The condition may be diagnosed before birth, evident at birth, or determined during childhood or beyond.  Many cases will require specialized treatment or care.  The following are some congenital spinal abnormalities.

Congenital Scoliosis

Neurosurgeon analyzes the x-rays of a radiograph and points with her index finger to the point where the patient's congenital scoliosis is present in the human anatomy

This is the most common type of congenital spinal abnormality.  The sideways curvature of the spine is often diagnosed in children between 10-12 years of age.  Early diagnosis makes the condition more manageable.  Mild cases may just require regular monitoring.  If the condition worsens, spinal bracing or corrective surgery may be needed.  Symptoms of congenital spinal scoliosis include uneven shoulders, a prominent shoulder blade, uneven leg length, uneven waistline, elevated hip, and constant leaning to one side.

Congenital Kyphosis

This uncommon deformity causes the spine to bend forward.  Vertebrae may be misshapen, fused together, or fail to separate.  The spinal cord is often compressed.  In severe cases, there is pain and stiffness.  The defect becomes more noticeable as the child grows.

Congenital Spinal Stenosis

Stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal.  Many people develop the condition later in life.  However, a person may be born with it.  Congenital spinal stenosis may not cause problems initially, but the spinal cord and nerve roots may be more prone to injury as the person ages.

Tethered Spinal Cord

This is a rare neurological disorder where the spinal cord is attached to surrounding tissue.  It often occurs in cases of spina bifida.  When diagnosed early, a tethered spinal cord is treatable.

Spina Bifida

This is a birth defect in which a section of the spinal cord and nerves are exposed.  Treatment options include surgery on the fetus during the pregnancy, or surgical repair soon after birth to close the defect.

Symptoms of Congenital Spinal Abnormalities

Kid with Uneven Shoulder Blades: Scoliosis, Exercises, Treatments

Some physical signs of congenital spinal abnormalities include:

  • Uneven shoulders, waist, or hips
  • Twisting of the back sideways, forward, or backward
  • Tilted pelvis
  • Difficulty walking
  • Difficulty breathing

Diagnosis

Imaging tests may include x-rays, CT scan, or MRI.

Treatment of Congenital Spinal Abnormalities

Treatment protocols for these abnormalities depend on the type and severity of the defect.  Severe cases that are likely to get worse as the child grows may need spinal bracing or surgery.  Less severe cases may be regularly monitored or referred for physical therapy.

Atlanta Brain and Spine Care

Our neurosurgeons offer patients access to some of the world’s most advanced treatments and procedures in five convenient metro Atlanta locations.  Contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.

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