New spinal stenosis in children data have been reported by scientists at Johns Hopkins University, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
2007 MAR 26 -- New investigation results, "Early presentation of spinal stenosis in achondroplasia," are detailed in a study published in Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics. According to recent research from the United States, "One third of patients with achondroplasia develop spinal stenosis requiring surgical intervention. However, this condition rarely develops before the age of 15 years." "The goal of the current study was to identify anatomical factors and clinical symptoms associated with early presentation of lumbar stenosis in such patients. The charts of 22 pediatric patients with achondroplasia who developed lumbar spinal stenosis requiring surgery (subjects) were reviewed retrospectively, focusing on clinical presentation, physical examination findings, and radiographic data. These findings were compared with those of a group of patients who had not developed stenotic symptoms (controls). Analysis was performed using chi2 test. Significance was set at p<0.05. All 22 subjects presented with neurogenic claudication (weakness, pain, and/or numbness), and 77% had bladder incontinence. Compared radiographically with controls, the subjects had a significantly larger average percentage decrease in the transverse interpedicular distance from T12 to L5 (-8% vs -19%, respectively) and a significantly greater thoracolumbar kyphosis angle (24.2-degree angle vs 14.1-degree angle, respectively). These features were associated with an increased likelihood of developing symptomatic stenosis," wrote J.G. Schkrohowsky and colleagues, Johns Hopkins University, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. The researchers concluded: "The study indicated that 6 patients (32%) of the control group had caudal widening of the lumbar spine from T12 to L5." Schkrohowsky and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics (Early presentation of spinal stenosis in achondroplasia. Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, 2007;27(2):119-22). For additional information, contact J.G. Schkrohowsky, The Johns Hopkins University, Dept. of Orthopaedic Surgery, Baltimore, MD USA. Publisher contact information for the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics is: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 530 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106-3621, USA. Keywords: United States, Baltimore, Achondroplasia, Angiology, Genetics, Orthopedics, Pediatric Orthopedics, Spinal Stenosis. This article was prepared by Pain & Central Nervous System Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2007, Pain & Central Nervous System Week via NewsRx.com.
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