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Updated: May 9, 2026
05:53
Intraoperative Ultrasound in Spinal Surgery
Published on: August 17, 2022
Solitary lumbar osteochondroma presenting with spinal cord compression
Massimo Natale1, Michele Rotondo, Raffaele D'Avanzo
1Department of Neuroscience, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy.
BMJ Case Reports
|August 2, 2013
Summary
This case study highlights a rare spinal osteochondroma in an adult, causing spinal cord compression. Prompt diagnosis and surgical excision are crucial for effective treatment and preventing complications.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Osteochondromas are typically benign bone tumors seen in adolescents.
- Spinal osteochondromas, particularly in the lumbar region, are rare.
- Intraspinal extension causing neurological compromise is an infrequent presentation.
Observation:
- A middle-aged woman presented with a solitary osteochondroma of the L2 right lamina.
- The tumor exhibited intraspinal extension, leading to spinal cord compression.
- This presentation is unusual due to the patient's age and lesion localization.
Findings:
- The solitary lumbar osteochondroma caused significant spinal cord compression.
- Radiological investigations were critical for diagnosis and surgical planning.
- Surgical total excision was performed as the primary treatment modality.
Implications:
- Spinal osteochondromas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of spinal tumors, even in adults.
- Early and accurate radiological assessment is vital for managing spinal cord compression.
- Complete surgical resection offers the best outcome, preventing recurrence and malignant transformation.
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