Related Experiment Videos
Cervical meningomyelocele--an institutional experience
M K Kasliwal1, S Dwarakanath, A K Mahapatra
1Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India.
Summary
Cervical myelomeningoceles (CMMC) present differently than thoracolumbar types, with a more favorable outcome. Early evaluation and surgical excision are recommended for optimal management of these distinct spinal defects.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
- Spinal Dysraphism Research
- Congenital Malformations
Background:
- Cervical myelomeningoceles (CMMC) are a rare subgroup of spinal dysraphism.
- They exhibit distinct embryological and clinical features compared to thoracolumbar variants.
- Limited data exists, with few small case series published.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present one of the largest series of CMMC cases.
- To review the embryology, clinical characteristics, and management of CMMC.
- To compare CMMC with thoracolumbar meningomyelocele.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of pediatric patients managed for CMMC.
- Study period: January 2001 to July 2006.
- Surgical excision of the sac was the primary intervention.
Main Results:
- Ten children (5 boys, 5 girls) aged 2-14 months underwent surgery for CMMC.
- Most patients had normal neurological exams and no gross orthopedic deformities.
- Associated anomalies included hydrocephalus (3), Chiari malformation (2), and syrinx (4).
Conclusions:
- Cervical myelomeningoceles are embryologically and clinically distinct from thoracolumbar lesions.
- CMMC demonstrate a more favorable prognosis.
- Preoperative evaluation for associated anomalies and surgical excision with intradural exploration are recommended.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Cranial and Spinal Meninges
The cranial and spinal meninges are complex protective structures surrounding the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain and spinal cord. These meninges consist of the dura mater, the arachnoid mater, and the pia mater. They protect the CNS, provide structural support, and aid in circulating cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Cranial Meninges
These meningeal layers cover the cranium. The dura mater is the outermost layer of cranial meninges. It is a thick and durable membrane of dense...
Cranial Meninges
These meningeal layers cover the cranium. The dura mater is the outermost layer of cranial meninges. It is a thick and durable membrane of dense...
01:22Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Bacterial meningitis is a severe, life-threatening inflammation of the meninges, particularly the pia mater and arachnoid mater, affecting the subarachnoid space, ventricles, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). If untreated, it can lead to significant neurological complications or death.Causative AgentsCommon pathogens vary with age and immune status. In adults, major organisms include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae. Streptococcus agalactiae (group B...