Syringomyelia and syringobulbia: pathophysiology, surgical treatment and nursing implications

Syringomyelia (central cavitation of the spinal cord) and syringobulbia (cavitation of the medulla) are relatively rare disorders. These conditions are often found in association with congenital abnormalities such as Chiari malformations, with neoplasms or as sequelae to spinal cord trauma. The pathology progresses from minor sensory changes to weakness and wasting and, in the case of syringobulbia, to respiratory compromise and even death. Surgical treatment involves drainage or decompression of the syrinx cavity with diversion of fluid to the subarachnoid space or peritoneal cavity. Posterior fossa decompression may also be used. These procedures attempt to halt destruction of the nervous system, but will not reverse damage that has already occurred. A case presentation and associated nursing diagnoses are discussed to illustrate current medical and nursing interventions.