Congenital Anomalies And Variants Of The Spine

Course overview

Identify common congenital skeletal anomalies and distinguish congenital blocked vertebrae from acquired fusions using wasp-waist deformity, rudimentary disc, and posterior element fusion. Recognize Klippel-Feil syndrome by its clinical triad and radiographic criteria, and identify associated anomalies including Sprengel's deformity, omovertebral bone, and renal abnormalities. Differentiate agenesis of the dens from os odontoideum and evaluate C1-C2 instability using flexion-extension imaging and the atlantodental interval. Describe ponticulus posticus and cervical pillar hyperplasia, and differentiate os odontoideum from a dens fracture by cortical margin characteristics. Identify paracondylar process, cervical ribs, and occipitalization of the atlas, and evaluate for vascular impression using McGregor's and Chamberlain's lines. Differentiate true posterior block vertebrae from optical illusions by evaluating anterior disc spaces, and recognize spina bifida occulta and non-united ossification centers. Differentiate nuclear impressions, Schmorl's nodes, and limbus bones based on radiographic appearance, location, and endplate involvement. Recognize knife-clasp deformity and identify lumbosacral transitional vertebrae by spatulated transverse processes articulating with the sacral ala.