Scoliosis in familial dysautonomia

Scoliosis is an almost constant finding in patients with familial dysautonomia who survive their first few years. Spinal deformity is frequently progressive and can add a serious problem to the complicated disease with its already high morbidity and mortality. Because of the associated physiological disturbances, conservative treatment frequently does not control the problem and surgery by spine fusion is indicated. Our experience suggests that the operative should be performed relatively early, before the appearance of a major curvature.