Hunchback with “S” Shape Spine: Cadaveric Case series

Abstract

Introduction: Kyphosis is a sharp posterior angulation due to localized collapse or wedging of one or more vertebrae and scoliosis is the lateral curvature of the spine. These may occur due to a congenital defect, fracture, and sometimes pathological or spinal tuberculosis. Materials and Methods: During routine cadaver dissection, four cases of kyphoscoliosis were identified. In the first case, a protrusion on the posterior surface of the trunk of the cadaver at L1 level was observed in a 60-year-old male. The lungs were collapsed and adherent with the pleura and thoracic wall. The posterior wall of the stomach was adherent to the pancreas and a depression was noted on the anterior surface of abdominal aorta. The T12 and L1 vertebrae were fused, and the spine was deviated to the left side. The anterior aspect of the body of L1 vertebrae was marginally eroded. The second case of kyphoscoliosis was from 80-year-old female cadaver. The descending and abdominal aorta had an abnormal course along the vertebral column, third and fourth cases were observed with slight protrusion and scoliosis but not much changes in the vertebral column. Results: The cause of the deformity was confirmed by pathological examination of the tissues showed inter vertebral disc degeneration with calcification and ossification and osteopenia. The underlying etiology can be tuberculosis, injuries, or infections. Conclusion: Severe kyphoscoliosis can affect wide range of systems in the body. It will affect not only the respiratory system also pressure on great vessels as a consequence of bony deformity. KEY WORDS: Kyphosis, Cadaver Dissection, Kyphoscoliosis, Deformity, Calcification, Ossification.