Scoliosis in Goldenhar syndrome with curve reversal during brace treatment: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background Goldenhar syndrome sometimes displays progressive scoliosis and other spinal deformities that require treatment. However, few reports exist on scoliosis correction in Goldenhar syndrome. We described the rare radiological outcomes of a patient with Goldenhar syndrome who received brace treatment for scoliosis. Case presentation A 4-year-old boy was diagnosed as having Goldenhar syndrome and referred to our hospital for scoliosis treatment. The deformity deteriorated gradually, and left convex scoliotic angle was 26 degrees (T3-L2) at 11 years of age. Unexpectedly during treatment with an orthopedic brace, the curve had reversed to 21 degrees (T5-L2) at 7 months of therapy. After another adjustment of the brace, his right convex scoliotic angle improved to 13 degrees (T4-L2) at 15 months of treatment. Conclusions Curve reversal may occur during brace treatment for scoliosis in Goldenhar syndrome. Clinicians may opt to periodically check curve correction despite the risk of increased radiation exposure.

Keywords

• Scoliosis
• Goldenhar syndrome
• Brace
• Radiological findings
• Overcorrection
• Curve reversal