Hemivertebrae: a comprehensive review of embryology, imaging, classification, and management.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this paper was to comprehensively review hemivertebrae in regard to their classification, embryology, etiology, diagnosis, clinical manifestations, and management of this developmental anomaly.

METHODS: This subject review of hemivertebrae was composed after conducting a thorough review of the available literature on this topic using PubMed and other standard search engines.

RESULTS: Hemivertebrae are incomplete vertebral column segments that can result in congenital scoliosis and be associated with a range of other structural anomalies. Presentations may differ and based on location and classification, treatments may vary.

CONCLUSION: Hemivertebrae are structural anomalies of the vertebral column that can potentially disrupt the spine's normal curvature. Their clinical impact depends on factors such as degree of segmentation and concurrence with other structural anomalies. It is hoped that this review will provide the clinician who treats patients with hemivertebrae a resource in better understanding this finding and its subsequent pathological effects.