Spinal intradural tumours: Part II--Intramedullary

The results of surgical management in 54 patients with intramedullary spinal cord tumours are presented. Cervical tumours were most frequent (25/54) followed by thoracic (16/54) and then lumbar (14/54). Ependymomas and astrocytomas were the most common tumour types. Total tumour removal was possible in just over half of the cases. Surgical complications included: two deaths, six patients with CSF leaks and one with wound infection. Postoperatively three patients had worsening of their motor deficit (unable to walk) and three patients had worsening of urinary sphincter function. Conversely, three patients who were unable to walk preoperatively were able to walk postoperatively, whilst four patients with sphincter disturbance showed improvement. Total tumour removal was not associated with increased risk of postoperative neurological deficit. Long-term follow up (2-18 years) was possible in 40 patients; 90% were still independently mobile. Our results compare favourably with other European studies and data from the North American units which have pioneered this surgery.