Intermediate
Technical
IVT
kyphosis
Pronunciation: ki-FOH-sis
Excessive forward curvature of the thoracic spine, creating a hunched appearance.
Full Definition
An abnormal spinal condition characterized by an excessive outward curvature of the thoracic spine, resulting in a rounded or hunched back appearance. Normal thoracic kyphosis ranges from 20-50 degrees, but pathological kyphosis exceeds these parameters. This condition can be congenital, developmental (Scheuermann's disease), or acquired through trauma, infection, or degenerative changes. Severe kyphosis may require surgical correction through spinal fusion and instrumentation.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with scoliosis; kyphosis refers to forward curvature, while scoliosis refers to lateral curvature.
In Context
- "The radiographs revealed progressive thoracic kyphosis measuring 75 degrees." — radiology report
- "Surgical correction of severe kyphosis improved the patient's sagittal alignment." — operative note
Also known as
thoracic kyphosis
hyperkyphosis
Contrasted with
lordosis
Don't confuse with
scoliosis
lordosis