Orthopedic aspects of the Marfan phenotype.

Thirty-six patients with the phenotypic features of Marfan's syndrome (arachnodactyly, abnormal ratio of arm span to height, ligamentous laxity, and tall stature) were evaluated and classified into three groups. Group 1 represented definite Marfan's syndrome and included patients with two or more major signs, with additional minor signs as described by McKusick (18 patients). Group 2 represented probable Marfan's syndrome and included patients with one major sign and multiple minor signs (nine patients).

Postoperative heterotopic ossification in the child with cerebral palsy: three case reports.

Three children with cerebral palsy and mental retardation showed irritability after surgical procedures. They were subsequently diagnosed as having heterotopic ossification. Heterotopic ossification developed around the hip in all cases--two after bilateral adductor releases at the operative site and the third after spinal fusion at a site unrelated to the surgery.

Early detection of heterotopic ossification in young patients with traumatic brain injury.

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is frequently a complication in patients with severe head injury, impeding the rehabilitation process. Detection of HO is often delayed until the appearance of clinical manifestations. To better characterize the frequency and distribution of HO, a three-year prospective study at a pediatric brain injury rehabilitation unit was done.

Delayed cervical central cord syndrome after trivial trauma.

Spinal cord injuries in children usually result from significant trauma. Two children with a delayed cervical central cord syndrome following trivial trauma are reported, one with no predisposing factor and one with a Chiari I malformation. Although dissimilar, these cases emphasize the importance of an evaluation for an anatomic defect or congenital anomaly in the patient with neurologic dysfunction following trivial trauma.

Hypercalciuric hypophosphatemic rickets, mineral balance, bone histomorphometry, and therapeutic implications of hypercalciuria.

A 14-year-old Turkish boy had severe rickets that had been clinically evident since he was 2 years of age. When he was 5 years of age, he had normal serum calcium and phosphorus levels and increased alkaline phosphatase activity. Treatment with modest dosages of vitamin D (5000 U/d for 3 weeks) resulted in hypercalcemia.