[Segmental kyphosis: etiology and sequelae].

On analyzing the results of observing over 100 patients the author supposed that the kyphotic position of two neighbouring vertebrae noticeably changed the conditions of the functioning of both vertebrae and of the disc lying between them. This was confirmed by the results of a theoretical study of the mechanical conditions created in a model of the vertebral column, as well as by some data of experimental studies described in literature, and the results of clinical and roentgenological examinations of 117 patients with a cuneiform variation of the vertebral body shape. It was found that under certain circumstances this variation might be the cause of protrusions or hernias of the intervertebral discs. A classification of the specific reactions of the vertebral bodies to the unusual conditions of the functioning is suggested. The participation of a number of anatomo-physiological systems in the vertebral column biomechanics gives ample opportunities for compensating the changes in the conditions of its functioning. However, a disturbance of the balanced operation of those systems may eventually lead to development of degenerative processes in the vertebral column, and, possibly, in other organs, e. g. in the joints. Real importance and probable prospects of using the discovered regularities for the health service practice are noted.