Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 11, 2026

Intraoperative Ultrasound in Spinal Surgery
Published on: August 17, 2022
Extradural cyst causing spinal cord compression in osteoporotic compression fracture
Jung-Hee Lee1, Ki-Tack Kim, Kyung-Soo Suk
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea. ljhspine@gmail.com
This study reports the first case of an intraspinal extradural cyst developing after an osteoporotic compression fracture. The cyst caused neurological deficits but was successfully treated with a single posterior surgical approach.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
Background:
- Intraspinal cystic lesions can cause neurological deficits.
- Intraspinal extradural cysts following osteoporotic compression fractures are not well-documented.
- A 66-year-old woman experienced progressive neurological deficits after conservative treatment for an L-1 osteoporotic fracture.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first case of an intraspinal extradural cyst secondary to an osteoporotic compression fracture.
- To illustrate the diagnostic imaging findings.
- To present the successful surgical management.
Main Methods:
- Serial radiographic and MRI imaging were used to diagnose the epidural cyst.
- The cyst was successfully treated via a single posterior surgical approach.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with progressive neurological deficit and back pain.
- Imaging confirmed an intraspinal extradural cyst.
- Surgical treatment resulted in successful resolution of the cyst.
Conclusions:
- Intraspinal extradural cysts can develop after osteoporotic compression fractures.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention can lead to favorable outcomes.
- This case highlights a rare complication and its effective management.
Related Concept Videos
Degenerative Disc Disease ll: Pathophysiology
Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Spinal Cord Injury ll: Pathophysiology
Spinal Cord: Gross Anatomy
Degenerative Disc Disease I: Introduction