Congenital spine deformities: scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis.

By definition, congenital spine deformities-scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis-are due to abnormal vertebral development. Thus, affected children tend to have a curvature noted much earlier in life than typical patients with idiopathic scoliosis. This early development of the deformity has resulted in a tendency for the young child with congenital deformities to receive less than optimal care. These curves must not be allowed to progress. In many cases, early fusion is necessary, which is preferable to allowing severe curves to develop.