Hemivertebrae

Hemivertebrae is a congenital spinal deformity in which one side of a vertebra fails to develop fully, creating a wedge-shaped vertebra that disrupts the normal alignment of the spine. This abnormality often leads to scoliosis (lateral curvature of the spine) or kyphosis (forward curvature), especially in growing children. If untreated, hemivertebrae can cause progressive spinal deformity, back pain, and even neurological complications due to spinal cord compression. In Bangladesh, congenital spinal conditions like hemivertebrae often remain undetected or improperly managed due to low awareness and limited access to pediatric spine specialists. However, with advanced diagnostic imaging and specialized surgical expertise now available through Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman, Assistant Professor of Pediatric Neurosurgery at the National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS&H) and Chief Consultant of Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre, children across Bangladesh now have access to world-class spinal deformity care. 🧠 What Is Hemivertebrae? Hemivertebrae is a congenital vertebral anomaly caused by failure of formation of one side of a vertebral body during fetal development. The wedge-shaped vertebra creates angular deviation in the spine and may result in: Scoliosis (sideways curvature) Kyphosis (forward curvature) Lordosis (backward curvature) in rare cases Structural imbalance during growth This condition can appear isolated or as part of syndromes like: Klippel-Feil syndrome VACTERL association Congenital scoliosis Tethered cord syndrome Spinal dysraphism 🚸 Signs and Symptoms of Hemivertebrae in Bangladeshi Children In Bangladesh, children with hemivertebrae may present with: Uneven shoulders or waist Visible spinal curvature when standing or bending forward Limb length discrepancy Abnormal walking posture or frequent falling Back pain or fatigue in older children In severe cases, neurological deficits like limb weakness or bladder dysfunction Unfortunately, these signs are sometimes mistaken for postural problems or vitamin deficiency, leading to delayed referral to a pediatric neurosurgeon. 🏥 Diagnostic Evaluation in Bangladesh Hemivertebrae can be diagnosed through clinical examination and advanced imaging, now widely available in Dhaka and other urban areas. Dr. Nafaur Rahman uses a combination of: Standing spine X-rays (AP and lateral) MRI of the whole spine – to evaluate spinal cord, tethered cord, or syrinx CT scan with 3D reconstruction – for accurate surgical planning EOS imaging (when available) for full-body alignment assessment Ultrasound of kidneys and heart – to screen for associated anomalies Early and accurate diagnosis is key to preventing long-term deformity and disability. ⚕️ Treatment Options for Hemivertebrae in Bangladesh Treatment depends on: Age of the child Degree of spinal curvature Location and number of hemivertebrae Presence of neurological symptoms ✅ Non-Surgical Management (for mild, non-progressive cases): Observation with regular imaging Physiotherapy to maintain posture Bracing to control early progression 🚨 Surgical Treatment (in progressive or severe cases): Surgery is typically required if: Curve is worsening with growth Hemivertebra is fully segmented and causing sharp angulation Child develops neurological symptoms There is spinal imbalance affecting quality of life Surgical options include: Hemivertebra resection with fusion (gold standard for younger children) Posterior spinal fusion with instrumentation Growth-friendly implants (like VEPTR or growing rods) in very young children Neuromonitoring-assisted correction surgery Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman is highly experienced in performing complex pediatric spinal reconstructions using modern instrumentation systems suitable for the growing spine. ✅ Postoperative Care and Long-Term Follow-Up Post-surgical recovery involves: Short-term bracing for stabilization Physical therapy for strength and mobility Regular imaging follow-up to monitor implant growth and spine alignment Long-term care through adolescence to ensure proper spinal development Most children return to normal school and play activities with improved posture, confidence, and function. 👨‍⚕️ Why Choose Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman for Hemivertebrae Surgery in Bangladesh? 🎓 Assistant Professor, Pediatric Neurosurgery, NINS&H 🏥 Chief Consultant, Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre 💡 Expert in congenital spinal deformity correction 🛠️ Trained in advanced techniques such as 3D spinal navigation, pediatric implants, and neuromonitoring 🇧🇩 Trusted by pediatricians, orthopedic surgeons, and families across Bangladesh 🌍 Nationwide Access to Pediatric Spine Surgery in Bangladesh Children with suspected or diagnosed hemivertebrae are referred to Dr. Nafaur Rahman from across Dhaka, Chattogram, Rajshahi, Khulna, Sylhet, Barisal, Mymensingh, and beyond. Teleconsultation and image review options are available for remote and rural patients. 📞 Contact for Appointment and Evaluation 📱 Serial/Consultation Booking: 📞 +8801912988182 📞 +8801607033535 🌐 Visit: www.neurosurgeonnafaur.com 📍 Locations: National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital, Dhaka Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre, Dhaka