Cauda equina compression in an achondroplastic dwarf. Is complex anterior and posterior surgical intervention necessary?

We report the case of an achondroplastic dwarf who presented with partial paraplegia due to cauda equina compression. The patient had marked thoracolumbar kyphosis and spinal stenosis at L2–L3. Although only posterior decompression is recommended in the literature for the treatment of achondroplastic patients presenting with neurological problems, a staged anterior and posterior decompression and stabilization was considered necessary for the treatment of this particular patient due to the presence of kyphosis. Satisfactory clinical results were achieved and sustained for six years following this complex operation.