Neurogenic and Myopathic Deformities of the Cervical Spine

Neurologic and myopathic deformities of the cervical spine present a unique management challenge to spine surgeons. The clinical presentations of these deformities can be quite similar; however, the spectrum of etiologies ranges from common systemic conditions with reversible symptoms to localized and progressive conditions without effective treatment. Given the success of systemic treatments for certain known etiologies, it is essential to screen symptomatic patients early for common causes to either stop or reverse progression of the deformity. Unfortunately, such evaluations can be challenging and the generalizability of treatment strategies is difficult. However, when reversible causes cannot be identified, management of these patients should focus upon symptomatic control with medications and bracing. Surgical intervention has generally led to improvement in patients with kyphosis causing spinal cord compression/neurologic deficit. However, surgical intervention aimed at specifically addressing kyphotic deformity in this clinical scenario has been associated with mixed results.