[MR investigation of spinal cord herniation in the thoracic spine]

József Kenéz1, Péter Barsi, György Várallyay

  • 1Semmelweis Egyetem, Egészségtudományi Kar, Neuroradiológiai Tanszék, 1021 Budapest, Húvösvölgyi út 116. profkenez@opni.hu

Ideggyogyaszati Szemle
|July 19, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Transdural spinal cord herniation, though rare, can be misdiagnosed. Surgical repair of the dural defect may improve or resolve neurological deficits, such as Brown-Sequard syndrome.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Neurosurgery
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Transdural spinal cord herniation is a rare condition.
  • It is often misdiagnosed due to its rarity and misleading imaging findings.
  • Potential causes include iatrogenic injury, trauma, or congenital dural defects.

Observation:

  • Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the thoracic spine can reveal characteristic yet misleading patterns.
  • These patterns are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
  • The condition can progress to cause Brown-Sequard syndrome.

Findings:

  • Congenital dural defects are implicated in approximately one-third of cases.
  • The misdiagnosis rate is high.
  • Characteristic MR imaging findings are key to identification.

Implications:

  • Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management.
  • Surgical repair of the dural defect is the primary treatment.
  • Surgical intervention can lead to significant improvement or complete regression of neurological deficits.