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Updated: Oct 3, 2026

Detrusor Underactivity Model in Rats by Conus Medullaris Transection
Published on: August 28, 2020
An unusual cause of incontinence
1National Unit for Multidisciplinary Studies of Spinal Pain, University of Queensland, Townsville General Hospital, Queensland.
Background:
Incontinence is the most common urological symptom of tethered cord syndrome and may present as the earliest sign of this condition. The presence of unexplained incontinence with spinal anomalies, low back and leg symptoms, should raise the suspicion of tethered cord syndrome and lead to a lumbar MRI study, even though only subtle neurological abnormalities are found.
Objective:
This case acts as a timely reminder of the need to be familiar with adult tethered cord syndrome so that an appropriate diagnosis is made promptly.
Discussion:
The two groups of tethered cord syndrome, group 1 and group 2, are briefly defined; this paper discusses the presenting history of a patient in the first group.
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