Congenital Anomalies of Spine

Congenital anomalies of the spine are structural abnormalities that develop during fetal development. These conditions can range from minor variations in spinal anatomy to severe malformations that can significantly impact an individual's spinal health. Understanding the causes, types, and potential treatment options for congenital spine anomalies is crucial for providing timely and effective care. 

Common Diseases Treated By The Department

The department specializing in Congenital Anomalies of the Spine deals with a range of spinal conditions that are present at birth. These anomalies can vary widely in their severity and impact on health and mobility. Common conditions treated by this department include:

• Spina Bifida: A birth defect where there is incomplete closing of the backbone and membranes around the spinal cord. It can range from mild to severe, with the more serious forms leading to neurological impairment.
• Scoliosis: While scoliosis can develop later in life, congenital scoliosis is caused by a malformation of the spine during development in the womb, leading to a curved spine.
• Kyphosis: An abnormal, forward rounding of the spine, which in congenital cases is due to malformation of the spinal bones during development.
• Tethered Spinal Cord Syndrome: A condition where the spinal cord is attached to the spine and can’t move freely, potentially leading to nerve damage and neurological symptoms.
• Klippel-Feil Syndrome: A rare disorder characterized by the fusion of any two of the seven cervical vertebrae. It is often associated with other congenital conditions.
• Hemivertebra: Where one side of the vertebra fails to form normally, leading to an asymmetry in the spine, which can result in scoliosis.
• Diastematomyelia: A rare congenital disorder where the spinal cord splits into two parts, often leading to neurological symptoms.
• Caudal Regression Syndrome: A rare disorder where there is abnormal development of the lower (caudal) end of the spine.
• Sacral Agenesis: A congenital disorder characterized by the absence of part or all of the sacral vertebrae.
• Craniovertebral Junction Abnormalities: Congenital structural abnormalities at the junction of the skull and the cervical spine, can affect the stability of this region and the function of the spinal cord and brainstem.

Key Procedures

• Corrective Surgery for Scoliosis: Surgical intervention to correct spinal curvature caused by congenital scoliosis, often involving spinal fusion with rods and screws to stabilize and straighten the spine.
• Repair of Spina Bifida: This can range from simple closure of the spinal defect to more complex surgeries to address associated issues like tethered spinal cord.
• Surgical Correction for Kyphosis: Procedures to correct abnormal forward curvature of the spine, which might involve osteotomies (cutting and reshaping bones) and spinal fusion.
• Detethering of the Spinal Cord: In tethered cord syndrome, surgery is performed to free the spinal cord from abnormal attachments, reducing tension and preventing further neurological deterioration.
• Hemivertebra Removal: For congenital hemivertebra causing significant scoliosis, removal of the abnormal vertebra followed by fusion of the adjacent vertebrae may be performed.
• Reconstruction for Caudal Regression Syndrome and Sacral Agenesis: These conditions may require complex reconstructive surgeries to improve function and stability, particularly in the lower spine and pelvis.
• Decompression for Diastematomyelia: Surgical intervention to split or remove the bony spur that divides the spinal cord, aiming to relieve compression.
• Craniovertebral Junction Stabilization: In cases of abnormalities at the skull-cervical junction, surgery may be required to stabilize this area and protect the brainstem and spinal cord.
• Growth Modulation Techniques: In younger patients, techniques such as growth rods or vertebral body tethering may be used to guide the growth of the spine more normally.
• Minimally Invasive Procedures: Where appropriate, minimally invasive techniques are employed to reduce recovery time and surgical risks.
• Orthotic Management: Use of braces or other orthotic devices to support the spine, often in conjunction with surgical treatment.

Key Advantages

• Improved Spinal Alignment: Treatment for congenital spine anomalies aims to correct structural abnormalities, reducing deformity and restoring proper alignment.
• Prevention of Progression: Early intervention and treatment can help prevent the progression of spinal deformities, limiting potential complications.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: With corrected spinal alignment and improved function, individuals often experience an overall improvement in their quality of life.
• Reduced Pain and Discomfort: Many patients experience a significant reduction in pain and discomfort following treatment for congenital spine anomalies.

Call 011-42888888 to book an appointment with a specialist at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute.