Scoliosis & Kyphosis
Spinal deformities are far more common than many of us know. Two of the fundamental spinal deformities are scoliosis and kyphosis. Both procedures are an abnormal curvature of the spine and occur most commonly in young teenagers and children, occasionally lasting until adulthood when left untreated. For most patients, these deformities are non-progressive, however, for many conditions like scoliosis and kyphosis continue to slowly progress and ever-worsen throughout life. This can cause both cosmetic and functional issues as well as chronic and acute pain.
Common Symptoms of these Spinal Curvature Deformities
Goals of Spine Stabilization Surgery
In some severe scenarios these spinal curves are addressed through spine stabilization surgery, the goals of such a procedure are:
- Treatment of the Spinal Deformity and Abnormal Curve.
- Slow or Stop the Progression of the Spine’s Curvature.
- Normalize Spinal Function.
- Reduce Both Chronic and Acute Spinal Pain.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is another type of spinal deformity in which one vertebrae slips forward compared the one above or below it. This issue can often result from a series of defects or stress fracture, particularly in the arch area of the spine’s vertebrae. In some severe circumstances the slippage of the vertebrae can cause spinal nerves to become irritated because of compression, causing pain, numbness, and muscle weakness, to radiate down the leg. Spondylolisthesis can become painful and progressive, in these instances spinal fusion surgery may become necessary. This will lock the bone in place and prevent any further slippage, lower back pain, and nerve irritation.
Common Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis are:
- Lower back pain (chronic and acute).
- Muscle spasms.
- Leg and thigh pain.
- Muscle numbness or weakness.
Causes of Such Spinal Deformities
Scoliosis & Kyphosis
For most individuals the causes of scoliosis and kyphosis are relatively unknown. Many researchers believe the deformities are caused through a combination of factors including:
- Abnormal Development of Bone Tissue.
- Weak or Soft Muscles in the area.
- Abnormalities in the inner ear or Poor Balance.
Spondylolisthesis
This spinal deformity is typically caused by a developmental defect of the arch of the vertebrae, sometimes caused by an injury or repetitive trauma. This slippage of a vertebrae can easily worsen over time.
Surgical Treatment Options
For the correction of certain spinal deformities like Spondylolisthesis, Scoliosis, and Kyphosis the most common surgical measure is Spinal Stabilization surgery. It becomes recommended when the Spondylolisthesis irritates a nerve and results in numbness or weakness of the leg, and in rare scenarios incontinence.
The main goal of spinal stabilization surgery is to eliminate the pressure onto the spinal nerves and to stabilize the spine.
Another such method of spinal deformity correction that may be more popular is spinal fusion surgery. Spinal fusion is the uniting of one vertebra to the next using either a bone grafted or a spinal instrument for assistance. The implant helps secure the fusion. The use of spinal instruments and implants are generally used for both stabilization and fusion surgery.
If you or your loved one may be suffering from a spinal deformity such as Scoliosis or Spondylolisthesis contact us today and schedule your next appointment with Dr. Vikas Varma.
