Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026
10:09
Transtubular Endoscopic Posterolateral Decompression for L5-S1 Lumbar Lateral Disc Herniation
Published on: October 14, 2022
4.8K
Against the Odds: Massive Lumbar Intradural Disk Herniation in the Elderly
Berk Orakcioglu1, Huy Philip Dao Trong1, Christine Jungk1
1Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
Global Spine Journal
|October 3, 2015
Summary
This case report details a rare intradural lumbar disk herniation in a 90-year-old man. The study highlights this condition as a crucial differential diagnosis for elderly patients presenting with acute bladder dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Intradural lumbar disk herniation is an exceptionally rare condition.
- Cases are seldom reported, particularly in elderly populations.
Observation:
- A 90-year-old male presented with acute neurogenic bladder dysfunction and lower back pain.
- Initial imaging and lab results suggested intraspinal infection.
- Intraoperative findings revealed a massive intradural disk herniation at the L2-L3 level.
Findings:
- The patient, despite advanced age, had a large intradural lumbar disk herniation.
- This herniation was the cause of his sudden-onset bladder dysfunction.
- No other neurological deficits were initially present.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering intradural disk herniation in elderly patients with acute bladder dysfunction.
- It challenges the previously established age limit for this rare condition.
- Accurate diagnosis is critical for appropriate management and preventing irreversible neurological damage.
Related Concept Videos
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...
01:27Degenerative Disc Disease I: Introduction
Degenerative disc disease is a chronic condition in which intervertebral discs gradually lose structure and function. It is not infectious or autoimmune; rather, it results from age-related biochemical and mechanical changes, influenced by genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors.Structure and Function of DiscsThe spine contains 23 intervertebral discs that absorb load, distribute forces, maintain spacing, and allow flexibility. Each disc consists of a nucleus pulposus, a gel-like core...
01:23Degenerative Disc Disease ll: Pathophysiology
The symptoms of degenerative disc disease arise from a combination of mechanical compression, vascular compromise, and biochemical inflammation, which together disrupt nerve function and produce pain.Mechanical CompressionDisc degeneration reduces height and elasticity, predisposing to herniation of the nucleus pulposus, a major cause of radicular pain. Herniations may be protrusion (bulging with intact annulus), extrusion (nucleus extends beyond disc but remains connected), or sequestration...