SEGMENTAL SPINAL DYSGENESIS - EARLY NEUROLOGIC DETERIORATION AND TREATMENT

Segmental spinal dysgenesis is a rare congenital condition of the lumb ar or thoracolumbar spine that can be associated with significant prog ressive or permanent neurologic defects, including paraplegia. In the past, both bracing and surgery have been recommended. Of the seven chi ldren we seen with this problem, three have lost motor function betwee n presentation and the time of surgery. Our experience suggests that t o prevent catastrophic neurologic deterioration, surgery is indicated once the diagnosis is made.