Skeletal dysplasia refers to a group of disorders that impact the growth and development of bone. This leads to a number of health-related issues with one of the most common being that of dwarfism. There over 450 distinct types of skeletal dysplasia. Due to the vast number of conditions and variety of associated medical problems, we have formed a comprehensive and patient-centered Skeletal Dysplasia Center in order to holistically address the wide variety of needs associated with these disorders.
At Akron Children’s Hospital, we have been caring for children & adults affected by skeletal dysplasia for decades. This led to the formal development of the Skeletal Dysplasia Clinic in 2001. Our team includes orthopedic surgeons, complex-care pediatrician, genetic counselor and clinical care coordinator. We individualize care to meet your specific needs and always meet one-on-one during your appointment that includes consultation with:
Our Skeletal Dysplasia Center was made possible through a generous donation from the Women’s Board of Akron Children’s Hospital.
Medical Director, Osteogenesis Imperfecta Clinic; Co-Director, Skeletal Dysplasia Center; Pediatric Hospitalist; Pediatrician
Co-Director, Skeletal Dysplasia Center; Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon
Chair, Department of Orthopedic Surgery; Director, Spine Center; Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon
Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon
In one convenient visit, families can expect to meet with each of the above providers. Our multidisciplinary team provides diagnostic and therapeutic services that include:
Genetic counseling is an important component of our center. Due to the complexity of inheritance associated with skeletal dysplasia, we place great value on educating families. The field of genetics is complex so we take the time to explain dominant and recessive inheritance, how the form of skeletal dysplasia in a given family is transmitted and who in the family has the chance to pass on the skeletal dysplasia in upcoming generations. For instance when recessive genes are involved, parents of average stature have the possibility to pass on a form of skeletal dysplasia to their children. Depending on the genetics, some siblings who are unaffected may carry a genetic change that could impact their children. All this is to say we want families to have and understand all relevant information so that they can make informed decisions.
Dwarfism, Chondrodysplasia Punctata, Diastrophic Dysplasia, Ellis-Van Creveld Syndrome, Marfan Syndrome, Metaphyseal Chondrodysplasia, Mucopolysaccharidoses, Multiple Epiphyseal Dysplasia, Pseudoachondroplasia, Skeletal Dysplasia, Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia, Spondylometaphyseal Dysplasia