Resolution of syringomyelia after release of tethered cord.
BACKGROUND
Syringomyelia is an abnormal cystic dilatation of the spinal cord caused by excessive accumulation of CSF. Patients can develop various neurologic deficits secondary to untreated syringomyelia, some of which can be permanent despite surgical intervention.


METHODS
The authors present a patient with syringomyelia, aortic coarctation, and tethered cord syndrome. Serial radiographic imaging demonstrated initial significant reduction of the thoracic syrinx after coarctation repair and release of tethered cord. However, subsequent follow-up imaging revealed partial recurrence.


CONCLUSIONS
This case provides evidence of a possible cause-effect relationship between syringomyelia and tethered cord. It demonstrates the indication of surveillance imaging of the entire spine to ensure that all potential etiologies of syringomyelia are identified and treated. Furthermore, it illustrates the complex dynamic nature of syrinx physiology and reinforces the importance of serial follow-up studies after surgical intervention.
Hsu
Andrew R
AR
Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA. andyhsu1@gmail.com
Hou
Lewis C
LC
Veeravagu
Anand
A
Barnes
Patrick D
PD
Huhn
Stephen L
SL
D001017:Aortic Coarctation / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D002420:Cauda Equina / Q000601:surgery; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007796:Laminectomy; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D009436:Neural Tube Defects / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D009460:Neurologic Examination; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D012008:Recurrence; D013595:Syringomyelia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*