Neurofibromatosis

Overview:

• The most common skeletal manifestation of neurofibromatosis is in the spine.

Classification:

1. Non-Dystrophic – similar to Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS).
2. Dystrophic:
   • Vertebral scalloping.
   • Tight acute curves.
   • Foraminal widening.
   • Pencil-like transverse processes (TPs).

Features:

• Kyphoscoliosis due to NF.
• High rate of intraneural anomalies.
• MRI is essential before any intervention.

Management:

• Management principles are similar to those of AIS.
• More aggressive treatment is required for the dystrophic type.
• There is a higher rate of pseudoarthrosis following surgery in these cases.