Congenital Scoliosis
- Due to improper formation of vertebrae
- Due to improper separation of vertebrae
- No known cause
- Usually requires monitoring by a spine specialist
- Will require surgery in many cases
Figure. Types of congenital scoliosis
Special Imaging Evaluation
MRI
• Used to evaluate spinal cord and brain • Often recommend in cases of congenital scoliosis • No radiation • May require sedation or anesthetic in young children
Ultrasound
• Used to evaluate kidneys and heart • Kidneys and heart develop at the same time as the spine and ultrasound can look for abnormalities
CT Scan
• High quality bone imaging • Large radiation dose • Usually done for pre-operative planning
Figure. CT 3D reconstruction showing a T12 "butterfly" vertebra (cleaved in center) and right 3 hemi-vertebra.
Treatment Options
