Special situations
Congenital scoliosis
In scoliosis caused by vertebrae forming differently before birth, how the curve behaves depends on the type of difference.
What does it mean?
In congenital scoliosis, one or more vertebrae formed differently during development in the womb. The most common differences are a half-formed vertebra (hemivertebra) and two vertebrae that remain joined on one side (a bar).
Will it progress?
Some types never progress, while others can progress quickly with growth. A one-sided bar combined with a hemivertebra on the opposite side is the fastest-progressing type. This is why regular X-ray check-ups are needed.
Additional tests
Because the heart, kidneys and spinal cord develop at the same time as the spine, they can also show differences. A heart ultrasound (echocardiogram), a kidney ultrasound and an MRI of the spinal cord are therefore usually requested.
Treatment
Curves that are not progressing are monitored. For progressive curves, early surgery before the curve becomes large (for example, removing the hemivertebra and fusing a short segment) can give good results with a smaller operation. A brace does not correct this type of curve itself, but it can be used to control the balancing curves above and below it.
This article is for general information and does not replace an examination. Diagnosis and treatment decisions are made individually, based on examination and test results.
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