| A 14-year-old male patient recently diagnosed with a defect in chromosome 9q13 related to the trinucleotide repeat GAA is referred for scoliosis evaluation. He walks with a slightly wide-based gait and has absent deep tendon reflexes. On examination, he has bilateral rigid cavovarus feet. Posteroanterior scoliosis radiographs reveal a major curve with a Cobb angle of 30°. Which of the following is the most appropriate treatment for his scoliosis? |
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- Posterior spinal fusion with instrumentation The description is that is that of Friedreich ataxia. Scoliosis is associated, but at 30° can be observed.
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- Growing rod spinal instrumentation with delayed spinal fusion Growing rods are utilized for a younger age and a more severe curve.
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- Observation with possible bracing The description is that is that of Friedreich ataxia. Scoliosis is associated, but at 30° can be observed and possibly braced.
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- Combined anterior/posterior spinal fusion with instrumentation The description is that is that of Friedreich ataxia. Scoliosis is associated, but at 30° can be observed and possibly braced.