Review of surgical correction of cervical kyphosis

Kyphotic deformity of the subaxial cervical spine can be debilitating to the patient, as well as challenging to the spine surgeon. Cervical kyphotic deformity is frequently progressive and can result in neurologic decline that mirrors the increase in deformity thus requiring surgical correction to alter the natural progression of the deformity. We review common etiologies, clinical and diagnostic workup, as well as pearls and pitfalls of each of the approaches to the cervical spine. Indications and contraindications for anterior, posterior, and combined approach are addressed.