posterior instrumented fusion

Observation

Curves < 20^o observation only at 3-6 month intervals depending on growth rate 

Non Operative Management / Bracing 

Never brace curves if patient Risser 4 or 5 

Indications

1.  Risser 0-2 (growth potential)

2.  Curve >30^o adolescent

3.  Curve >25^o with progression (5^o in six months)

Definitions

Cervical spondylosis

- chronic disc degeneration & associated facet arthropathy

Cervical myelopathy

- spinal cord dysfunction

- secondary to extrinsic compression of cord or its vascular supply

Cervical radiculopathy

- sclerotomal distribution of motor &/or sensory symptoms or signs

- due to compression of nerve root