Related Experiment Videos
The cervical spine in Crouzon syndrome
P J Anderson1, C Hall, R D Evans
1Department of Craniofacial Surgery, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom.
Spine
|February 15, 1997
Summary
Cervical spine fusions occur in 18% of children with Crouzon syndrome and appear to be progressive. This study highlights the prevalence and pattern of these fusions in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Craniofacial anomalies and skeletal dysplasias.
- Pediatric radiology and spinal development.
Background:
- Crouzon syndrome is associated with a higher incidence of congenital cervical spine abnormalities.
- Previous research suggests that cervical spine fusions in Crouzon syndrome may be progressive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and pattern of cervical spine abnormalities in Crouzon syndrome patients.
- To specifically investigate the progressive nature of cervical spine fusions in this population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of cervical spine radiographs from 44 Crouzon syndrome patients over 10 years.
- Radiographs were analyzed by a craniofacial team and a pediatric radiologist experienced in skeletal dysplasias.
Main Results:
- Eight out of 44 patients (18%) exhibited cervical spine fusions, including "butterfly" vertebrae.
- Fusions commonly affected C2-C3 and C5-C6 levels; block fusions were also observed.
- Analysis of serial studies in 16 patients indicated progressive fusion in five.
Conclusions:
- The observed incidence of cervical spine fusions (18%) is lower than previously reported, possibly due to the study population being primarily children with incomplete fusion.
- Radiographic evidence supports the progressive nature of these fusions.
- Butterfly vertebrae appear to be a prevalent congenital anomaly in patients with Crouzon syndrome.