Heary, Robert F., Albert, Todd J.: Spinal Deformities: The Essentials

Excerpt

This new edition of Spinal Deformities: The Essentials by Heary and Albert discusses several subjects of high importance for the paediatric neurosurgeon. In this regard, of special interest are the history and the overview of spinal deformities, the second chapter measuring values and dealing with spinal deformity care, the third chapter dedicated to intraoperative neuromonitoring in spinal deformity surgery as well as the fifth chapter presenting anatomical variance in spinal deformity with the complex classification system used for idiopathic scoliosis. Such classification provides detailed patterns of sagittal and coronary plane deformity and the understanding of flexible fixed spinal deformity. The natural history of spinal deformity presented in the 11th chapter deals with the very important topic of juvenile idiopathic scoliosis. This chapter is very useful for the counselling of the parents of paediatric patients. Especially interesting is the percentage of risk progression based on Risser (Risser, grade and curve magnitude) criteria. Furthermore, the chapter on congenital scoliosis demonstrates the high percentage of associated abnormalities which should be taken into account when considering non-operative treatment options. The authors recommend a follow-up with clinical and radiological evaluation every 6 months in the time of rapid growth (age birth–4 years and the pubertal growth spurt). The authors here are stating that there is nothing worse than to see a patient who is being allowed to progress without action having been taken. …