The Orthobullets Podcast Spine | Neuromuscular Scoliosis
Dec 7, 2025
Dive into the fascinating world of neuromuscular scoliosis! The podcast discusses its unique characteristics and compares it with idiopathic curves. Learn about surgical options and infection risks, including critical factors for wound complications. There's insight into managing scoliosis in conditions like Rett syndrome and spinal muscular atrophy. The episode also emphasizes the importance of early fusion in muscular dystrophy cases and explores the implications for patients with paralytic syndromes. A must-listen for spine surgery enthusiasts!
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Neuromuscular Curves Behave Differently
- Neuromuscular scoliosis stems from brain, spinal cord, or muscular disorders and behaves differently than idiopathic curves.
- These curves are more progressive, involve more levels, may include the cervical spine, and carry higher pulmonary complication risk with surgery.
Surgery Is The Only Proven Deformity Fix
- Perform surgical spinal fusion when you need documented deformity correction and improved quality of life.
- Optimize nutrition, immune status, and manage VP shunts and seizures to lower wound complication risk.
Cerebral Palsy: Brace Early, Fuse For Big Curves
- For cerebral palsy, try Boston-type bracing until puberty for select patients and modify wheelchairs to improve sitting.
- Indicate posterior fusion ± anterior fusion and fusion to pelvis for curves >50° or worsening pelvic obliquity affecting sitting.