Thoracic Spine Flashcards
Reasons for changes in thoracic kyphosis?
Congenital
Developmental
Postural
Degenerative
Presentation of Scheuermann’s Kyphosis?
usually age 12-15, M >F
rapid bone growth
Front sections of vertebra grow slower leading to wedge shaped vertebra
Rigid deformity / structural kyphosis
Dx criteria for Scheuermann’s Kyphosis? What else is assessed?
Anterior wedging
≥5° in at least three adjacent vertebral bodies
Cobb angle: used to assess the severity of the deformity
Tx of Scheurmann’s kyphosis?
Stretching / strengthening
Bracing if kyphosis exceeds 55-60° until skeletally mature
surg: rarely utilized
What are some indications for surg for scheuermann’s kyphosis?
- Skeletal maturity
- Pain unresponsive to conservative care
- Rigid deformity
- Kyphosis > 75°
- Unacceptable appearance
Pt complains of constant pain, worsened with deep breath and pushing on breastbone…. whats top on your ddx?
costocondritis