Bone Defects by Birth: Early Detection for Effective Treatment

Bony malformations or deformities in newborn babies are a common occurrence. As per the World Health Organisation, out of every 100 children born 7 are likely to have a bone defect. Bone defects by birth, also known as congenital bone defects can not only restrict the growth and development of the child but also limit their daily activities. Restriction of activities like running, playing, walking, writing, etc. don’t just have physical consequences but also affect a child’s emotions and psychology. However, these bone defects, if detected and addressed early can greatly improve the quality of life and overall health of children who suffer from them.

Why can children have congenital bone defects?

Factors such as genetic mutations, environmental effects while the fetus is still in the mother’s womb, or a combination of these can lead to congenital bone defects/bone defects by birth. The environmental effects can include habits like smoking or drinking that can be harmful for the developing baby, or some unwanted infections during pregnancy. These defects develop in the first trimester and early weeks of the second trimester.

What can congenital bone defects look like?

Congenital bone defects can manifest in various forms. Some examples include:

• Congenital bone deformities: The bone in this case is misshaped. Clubfoot is a common congenital bone deformity, where the baby presents with deformed foot which can be twisted or rotated.
• Bone underdevelopment or overdevelopment: Any bone in the body may fail to develop fully, or grow in excess resulting in deformities.
• Osteogenesis imperfecta: This is a genetic disease that affects the quality/density of bones. A child with this disease has brittle bones that break easily and do not develop normally.
• Hip Dysplasia: In this their abnormal development of the hip joint resulting in dislocation of the hip.

Importance of Early Detection

Bone Defects by Birth – Early Detection for Effective Treatment in India, Hyderabad

Early detection of bone defects is an opportunity for early treatment. Since babies and children are growing, early treatment can lead to a complete cure, or limit the problem depending on the type of bone defect one has. With advancements in medical science, the detection of some bone defects is also possible before birth through prenatal ultrasounds. Apart from this, postnatal screening and thorough physical examination can help in the detection of bone defects that are not apparent during pregnancy.

By instituting early treatment, the natural growth and development of bone in babies and young children can lead to better alignment and function. In case of delayed treatments, a complete cure may not always be a possibility.

What are the treatment options for bone defects in children?

The exact treatment will depend on the presenting bone defect and its severity. Some of the treatment options that your pediatric orthopaedic surgeon may suggest include:

• Non-surgical treatment: This includes, physical therapy like strengthening exercises. Guided physiotherapy exercises as performed by the expert or reinforced at home can be suggested. Apart from this bracing or casting of the affected bone can also be suggested which can help in directing the growth of bone in case of deformities.
• Medicinal treatment: For some conditions like osteogenesis imperfecta where the bone density and quality are affected, medications may be prescribed by your doctor.
• Surgical treatment: In severe cases of bone defects and deformities, surgery of the affected area may be required. This can be corrective to realign the bone or may require grafting depending on the need for correction.

Is it safe for a baby or small child to undergo orthopaedic procedures?

It is absolutely safe for babies and small children to undergo orthopaedic procedures. Since children are sensitive and their bones and muscles are still growing, which are different than that of adults, they need an expert who can understand their specific needs. A paediatric orthopaedic surgeon ensures that children are dealt with utmost care and empathy.

Can congenital bone defects be prevented?

Not all bone defects may be possible to prevent due to genetic association, but by keeping healthy habits during pregnancy and ensuring regular checkups one can hope to prevent some bone defects and ensure good overall health.

• Pre-pregnancy counselling and planning: Genetic and pre-pregnancy counselling is suggested to understand any genetic problems that the newborn can have. At this time the doctor also ensures that the mother-to-be is in the best health to conceive a child.
• Having healthy habits during pregnancy: Each mother-to-be is advised to eat healthy food and refrain from habits like consumption of alcohol, or smoking nicotine during pregnancy. Pregnant women should not be exposed to smoke passively too, thus family and friends should ensure not to smoke around them.
• Ensure to take vitamins and minerals: Pregnant women require additional supplements like iron and calcium to make sure they have enough supply of essential nutrients for two. It’s crucial that women take their supplements regularly and consume a balanced diet to ensure both mother and child stay healthy.
• Regular checkups: Prenatal ultrasounds are crucial to detect any health concerns in the developing fetus. Early detection is essential for effective treatment. Pregnant women should make sure that they do not miss their appointments with their gynaecologist during pregnancy.
• Avoid medications: Some medications can have harmful effects on the developing fetus. Women should never have any unprescribed medications during pregnancy, even when it is homeopathic or ayurvedic, without consulting their gynaecologist.
• Managing chronic conditions: Pregnant women who may have any other systemic disease, like diabetes mellitus, etc, come under high-risk pregnancy. Systemic diseases if uncontrolled can increase the chances of congenital anomalies in the newborn. Women should keep a check on their systemic health to ensure the newborn baby stays healthy too.
• Stay vaccinated: Infections like rubella can cause congenital defects. Vaccinations against such infections prevent them and the complications they can cause. By pre-pregnancy checkups and regular follow-ups during pregnancy, one can ensure they are vaccinated and safe.
• Keep a check on the environment: In case women are exposed to, or work in industries that expose them to radiation, pesticides, or industrial chemicals then caution should be taken to prevent it. These environmental effects can prove teratogenic for the developing fetus.

Can children with congenital bone defects lead a normal life?

Congenital bone defects vary in severity and type. Most children with early identification and treatment of these defects have good growth and development and lead healthy and normal lives. Long-term follow-ups are suggested to ensure the healthy growth and development of these children.

Congenital bone defects or bone defects by birth, though undesired can be tackled with ease if detected at the right time.