title: Multi-level Split Cord Malformation: Do We Need a New Classification?
abstract: Split cord malformations (SCMs) are thought to be rare abnormalities representing 3.8-5% of all spinal cord anomalies. The prevalence is estimated to be 1 in 5499 live births (0.02%), with a slight female predominance (1.3:1). Although the estimates of prevalence vary, Type I SCM occurs more frequently than Type II SCM. In this paper, we are reporting the clinical presentation and imaging findings of multi-level SCM in a 27-year-old male. A literature review of the embryological background of SCM and pathological hypothesis for this entity is provided. A systematic review has been conducted to identify multi-level SCM cases reported in the literature, followed by proposing a new classification system to further our understanding and management of SCMs.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institution and Hospital, Montreal, Canada ; Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
authors.forename: Gmaan A
authors.initials: GA
authors.lastname: Alzhrani
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institution and Hospital, Montreal, Canada ; Department of Neurosurgery, King Fahad University Hospital, Dammam University, Alkhobar, Saudi Arabia.
authors.forename: Hosam M
authors.initials: HM
authors.lastname: Al-Jehani
authors.affiliation: Department of Neuroradiology, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
authors.forename: Denis
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Melançon
keywords: Multi-level SCM; diastematomyelia; spine dysraphism; split cord malformation