We found that certain upper-extremity anomalies, specifically radial and ulnar hemimelia, phocomelia, and amelia, are associated with a striking incidence of scoliosis. Many of the curvatures were noted at an early age and progressed rapidly in severity. Several required spine fusion for control and several others were neglected to the point of severe clinical deformity.
The physician treating congenital anomalies of the upper extremity should be aware of the possibility of a very early scoliosis. It is suggested that routine anteroposterior roentgenograms of the spine be obtained on all patients with upper-extremity anomalies of the types considered here since mild curves with a potential marked progression may not be appreciated by casual observation.