Cauda equina syndrome during pregnancy: A condition to consider
Juan Fernando J Viseu Pinheiro1, David P Hernández1, Juan Francisco B Blanco1
1Orthopaedics and Traumatology Department, University Hospital of Salamanca, Paseo de San Vicente 58-182, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.
International Journal of Surgery Case Reports
|June 22, 2018
Summary
Cauda equina syndrome (CES) during pregnancy is rare but serious. Prompt MRI diagnosis and emergency surgery after delivery are crucial for better outcomes in pregnant patients with CES.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Obstetrics
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Low back pain is a frequent complaint during pregnancy.
- Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare but severe condition that can occur during pregnancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the diagnostic and management challenges of CES in pregnant patients.
- To emphasize the importance of timely surgical intervention for CES in pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two pregnant women diagnosed with CES.
- Utilized Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) for diagnosis.
- Emergency surgical decompression was performed after delivery.
Main Results:
- MRI confirmed CES in both cases during pregnancy.
- Surgical decompression was performed post-delivery.
- Early surgical intervention (within 48 hours of symptom onset) is associated with improved prognosis.
Conclusions:
- MRI is the primary diagnostic tool for CES in pregnant women.
- Emergency surgical decompression is essential for managing CES in pregnancy.
- Optimal outcomes for CES depend on prompt surgical intervention.
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