[Stenosis of the cervical spinal canal: acquired? congenital]

The authors show that it is impossible to describe congenital stenosis of the cervical rachidian canal with a particular morphology that would make it possible to recognize the condition before the appearance of neurological signs. They do not deny its existence, but at the moment there is no proof, and hope of a prophylaxis for the neuropathy is not justified. On the other hand, there is clearly a possibility of an acquired stenosis. The term arthrosis is so generalized that it has lost nearly all its meaning. The rheumatologist knows the complex lesions comprise osteophytes and thickening of the soft parts next to the bone, and can be accompanied by hypertrophy of the neighbouring bone tissue; projection of the disc, proceeding from a soft hernia to diffuse protrusion and to ossification, is one aspect among others. It is useful to analyse these factors and those concerning the vessels and nerve tissues both in the study of individual cases and in general studies.