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The natural history of thoracolumbar kyphosis in achondroplasia

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Abstract

There are little published data on the natural history and evolution of thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity in achondroplasia. Furthermore, there are few published reports indicating the probability of symptoms and at what kyphotic angle progressive deformity might occur. The lack of knowledge of the fundamental natural history does not allow firm guidelines for the management of this problem. In this respect the role of bracing remains uncertain both in terms of altering the prognosis for further vertebral wedging and overall sagittal profile. This report describes three illustrative cases of thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK) that occurred in achondroplastic infants. The long-term outcomes are presented to illustrate the diverse clinical behaviour of TLK in this patient group.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Centre for Spinal Studies and Surgery, Queen’s Medical Centre Campus, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Derby Road, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK

    Malik Ahmed, Mahmoud El-Makhy & Michael Grevitt

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  1. Malik Ahmed
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  2. Mahmoud El-Makhy
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  3. Michael Grevitt
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Correspondence to Malik Ahmed.

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Ahmed, M., El-Makhy, M. & Grevitt, M. The natural history of thoracolumbar kyphosis in achondroplasia. Eur Spine J 28, 2602–2607 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-016-4861-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-016-4861-1

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