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Development and Growth of the Spine and Lungs

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Paediatric Scoliosis

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Abstract

This chapter explores the normal development and growth of the human spine, with a particular emphasis on its association with thoracic cage and lung development. Spinal development initiates during the embryonic stage with the formation of the notochord and neural tube, leading to the differentiation of somites into the musculoskeletal system. Longitudinal spine growth is influenced by neural stem activity, resulting in varying growth rates for the thoracic and lumbar regions. Any disruption in this process, such as early-onset scoliosis (EOS), can hinder thoracic cage development and lung growth, potentially leading to severe respiratory insufficiency. Early intervention, like opening wedge thoracostomy, is vital in expanding the thoracic cage and maximizing lung growth before bronchial tree development is complete. While conventional spinal instrumentation has limitations in controlling deformities, newer techniques aim to preserve spinal growth and motion. Avoiding extensive spine arthrodesis in young children is crucial to maintain their spinal and thoracic growth potential. Emphasizing a longer, curved spine with preserved growth over early fusion and a shorter, straight spine is gaining acceptance in scoliosis treatment.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Amala Institute of Medical Sciences, Thrissur, Kerala, India

    Kishore Puthezhath

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  1. Kishore Puthezhath
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Correspondence to Kishore Puthezhath .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India

    Balaji Zacharia

  2. Department of Orthopaedic and Spine, Kauvery Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

    S. Dilip Chand Raja

  3. Department of Spine Surgery, Meitra Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India

    Nikhil KV

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Puthezhath, K. (2023). Development and Growth of the Spine and Lungs. In: Zacharia, B., Raja, S.D.C., KV, N. (eds) Paediatric Scoliosis . Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-3017-3_48

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-3017-3_48

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Singapore

  • Print ISBN: 978-981-99-3016-6

  • Online ISBN: 978-981-99-3017-3

  • eBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)

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