Spinal Deformities: Common Types, Causes, and Surgical Treatment Options

Spinal deformities refer to abnormal curvatures and misalignments of the vertebral column. These deformities can be congenital (present at birth), idiopathic (of unknown origin), or secondary to another condition. Here, we will discuss the most common types of spinal deformities and the surgical interventions employed to treat them.

Scoliosis 

Definition: A lateral (sideways) curvature of the spine.

Types:

• Idiopathic scoliosis: The most common type, and its cause remains unknown. It’s usually divided into:
  • Infantile (0-3 years)
  • Juvenile (4-10 years)
  • Adolescent (10 years to maturity)
• Congenital scoliosis: Caused by vertebral malformations during fetal development.
• Neuromuscular scoliosis: Resulting from muscle weakness or neurological problems.

Surgical Correction: Depending on the degree and location of the curve, various surgeries can be performed:

• Posterior spinal fusion: Rods and screws are attached to the spine to correct the curvature and the involved vertebrae are fused.
• Anterior spinal fusion: The spine is approached from the front, and the curve is corrected before the vertebrae are fused.
• Growing rods: Used in young children to allow for continued growth while correcting the curve.

Kyphosis

Definition: An exaggerated forward rounding of the upper back.

Types:

• Postural kyphosis: Due to poor posture and is the most common form.
• Scheuermann’s kyphosis: A more severe form that arises during growth spurts in adolescence.
• Congenital kyphosis: Due to malformation of the spinal column during fetal development.

Surgical Correction: Surgical treatment is considered for severe kyphosis or when non-surgical treatments fail.

• Posterior spinal fusion: Often used to treat Scheuermann’s kyphosis.
• Osteotomy: Removal of a section of bone to allow for correction of the deformity, followed by fusion.

Lordosis

Definition: Excessive inward curvature of the lumbar (lower back) spine.

Types:

• Postural lordosis: Usually due to obesity or poor posture.
• Congenital lordosis: Rare and caused by a bone malformation at birth.

Surgical Correction: Surgery is generally reserved for severe cases.

• Spinal fusion: Fuses the vertebrae in the affected section of the spine to correct the curve.

Spondylolisthesis

Definition: A condition where one vertebra slips forward over the one below it.

Types:

• Isthmic spondylolisthesis: Most common and occurs due to a minor fracture.
• Degenerative spondylolisthesis: Occurs due to wear-and-tear changes in the spine.

Surgical Correction:

• Spinal fusion: The most common surgery, where the slipped vertebra is fused to the adjacent ones.
• Laminectomy: Part of the vertebral bone is removed to relieve pressure on the nerves.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Definition: A type of arthritis that affects the spine, leading to the fusion of vertebrae.

Surgical Correction:

• Osteotomy: Used to realign the spine if it becomes too stooped.
• Spinal fusion: Used in cases with excessive pain or neurological complications.

Spinal deformities can have profound effects on one’s quality of life. While many mild cases can be managed with non-surgical interventions, severe deformities often necessitate surgical correction. The specific surgical approach is tailored to the type and severity of the deformity, the patient’s age, overall health, and other factors. As with all surgeries, spinal procedures come with risks, and discussing potential benefits and drawbacks with a qualified spine surgeon is essential.

For a comprehensive evaluation and to explore your treatment options, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment or seek a second opinion consultation with Dr. Scott Raffa at Cantor Spine Center at the Paley Orthopedic & Spine Center by calling 561-935-1188. Take the first step towards a pain-free life by calling us today.