Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026
05:53
Intraoperative Ultrasound in Spinal Surgery
Published on: August 17, 2022
Spinal cord compression due to C4 vertebral arch osteochondroma
1Department of Neurosurgery, Reims Teaching Hospital Medical Center, 51100 Reims, France. chris.eap@gmail.com
Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Surgery & Research : OTSR
|November 25, 2010
Summary
This study details a rare case of spinal osteochondroma causing severe neurological deficits. Surgical removal of the C4 vertebral osteochondroma led to good outcomes and slow recovery from spinal cord compression.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Osteochondromas are typically benign bone tumors affecting long bone metaphyses.
- Spinal involvement, particularly in the cervical region, is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A 23-year-old male with a history of infectious myelitis and prior hip osteochondroma presented with severe neurological deterioration.
- Imaging revealed an osteochondroma of the C4 vertebral arch compressing the spinal cord and causing syringomyelia.
Findings:
- The patient underwent complete surgical excision of the cervical osteochondroma.
- Postoperative recovery showed improvement in neurological function, with gradual resolution of spinal cord compression symptoms.
Implications:
- This case highlights osteochondroma as a rare but significant cause of spinal cord compression.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing neurological deficits caused by spinal osteochondromas.
Related Concept Videos
01:16Spinal Cord: Cross-sectional Anatomy
The cross-sectional anatomy of the spinal cord offers a detailed view of its complex structure and function within the central nervous system. At the core of the spinal cord lies the gray matter, characterized by its butterfly or "H"-shaped appearance in cross-section. This central region is enveloped by white matter, with the overall structure divided into symmetrical halves by the dorsal median sulcus and the ventral median fissure.
Gray Matter and its Components
Central to the gray matter is...
Gray Matter and its Components
Central to the gray matter is...
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
01:15Spinal Cord: Gross Anatomy
The spinal cord resides within the protective confines of the vertebral column. It is the main pathway for information traveling between the brain and the body. It plays a fundamental role in nearly all bodily functions, from simple reflexes to complex motor movements. The spinal cord begins at the medulla oblongata at the base of the brainstem and extends downward, terminating at the conus medullaris near the first and second lumbar vertebrae. The spinal cord's length in adults is...
01:16Vertebral Column: Regions and Curvature
The vertebral column or spine is a flexible column that supports the head, neck, and body and allows for their movements. It also protects the spinal cord.
Regions of the Vertebral Column
In an adult, the spine is subdivided into five regions: the cervical, the thoracic, the lumbar, the sacral, and the coccygeal region. The spine initially develops as a series of 33 vertebrae; after 20 years of age, the nine bones in the sacral region, five sacral, and four coccygeal bones fuse to form the...
Regions of the Vertebral Column
In an adult, the spine is subdivided into five regions: the cervical, the thoracic, the lumbar, the sacral, and the coccygeal region. The spine initially develops as a series of 33 vertebrae; after 20 years of age, the nine bones in the sacral region, five sacral, and four coccygeal bones fuse to form the...
01:26Spinal Cord
The spinal cord, a critical component of the central nervous system, extends from the base of the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column. It is essential for maintaining physical stability and facilitating communication between the brain and peripheral parts of the body.