Kyphotic Deformities in Skeletal Dysplasias

Nearly all skeletal dysplasias have spinal manifestations, for example, kyphosis, scoliosis, and vertebral anomalies. Kyphosis may occur in the cervical and thoracolumbar spines or in association with severe scoliosis. Cervical kyphosis may occur in patients with diastrophic dysplasia or Larsen syndrome. Large kyphoses with progression or neurologic symptoms require surgery, but most patients with diastrophic dysplasia will show resolution. Thoracolumbar kyphosis occurs in nearly all patients with achondroplasia, but resolution is common, occurring when walking begins. Persistent kyphoses may exacerbate coexisting spinal stenosis; curves with progression or neurologic compromise may require arthrodesis with instrumentation.