Spinal Deformities in Marfan Syndrome

Marfan syndrome is a connective tissue disease that affects the skeletal system among other organ systems. Kyphoscoliosis, spondylolisthesis, and atlantoaxial subluxation are common spinal deformities in Marfan syndrome, and distinctive vertebral morphology within such patients presents significant treatment challenges. Although most scoliosis curves in patients who have Marfan syndrome are minor, those that require treatment progress rapidly; brace treatment has proven ineffective for most patients. Surgical correction is associated with complications, such as failure of fixation and additional deformity; however good results are possible when consideration is given to the unique challenges presented by patients who have Marfan syndrome.