Congenital Birth Defects (Scoliosis & Atrial Septal)

Overview:
Congenital Scoliosis caused by hemivertebrae( first child) and Atrial Septal Defect with first degree AV block, congenital heart defect ( second child).

Symptoms:
My first child, Azlynn, was having stomach problems so a KUB was ordered. This was when she was 7. Upon examination of the KUB report, it was noted she had mild thoracolumbar scoliosis. Her ped said they would recheck it in a year. The next year at 8, it had gotten progressively worse. Otherwise she had no symptoms. For my second child her only symptom is a heart murmur.

Tests/Diagnosis:
Azlynn had an x-ray done. After that confirmed she got worse, she then had to see a orthopedic surgeon who did many more x-rays. He diagnosed her as having hemivertebrae, a birth defect ocurring in the womb which caused scoliosis. For the second child, she was sent to a cardiologist who had an EKG and an echo done. She was diagnosed with atrial septal defect with first degree av block. Her hole is 22 to 25 MM in size and is very large for her age.

Treatments:
First child had posterior spinal fusion on 6/08/11 and is doing well. She has to be checked every year to monitor growith with the rods and screws she has in her spine. The second child has to undergo open heart surgery within a few months to patch her hole closed.

Resources:
None.

Personal Story:
Hi, I have two girls and they were both born with congenital birth defects. My oldest daughter Azlynn has congenital scoliosis, caused by hemivertebrae. She had a posterior spinal fusion last year at Johns Hopkins. She is now doing great and has to be checked every year to see how her spine is growing with the rods and screws. My 19 month old, Aurora, was just diagnosed with two congenital heart defects, Atrial Septal Defect and AV block. The ASD is very large for her age, 22 to 25 MM in size. She has to have open heart surgery. We are being recommended to do it now or before the cold season kicks in. I am heartbroken and really scared.All prayers are appreciated. These girls are my warriors :)


Contributed by MOM Jess Moore