Midline sacral meningeal cyst decompression and repair
Ivan Cabrilo1, Nathalie Zaidman2, Adrian T Casey2
1Victor Horsley Department of Neurosurgery, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK. iv.cabrilo@gmail.com.
Acta Neurochirurgica
|August 21, 2021
Summary
Surgical treatment for symptomatic midline sacral meningeal cysts (MSMC) involves a sacral laminectomy to close the cyst
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Surgery
- Cystic Lesions
Background:
- Symptomatic midline sacral meningeal cysts (MSMC) are rare neurological conditions.
- Limited surgical technique reports exist for addressing these specific cysts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a specific surgical technique for managing symptomatic MSMC.
- To provide a detailed procedural overview for neurosurgeons.
Main Methods:
- A sacral laminectomy is performed to access the cyst.
- The cyst is opened, drained, and its communication with the dural sac (ostium) is identified.
- The ostium is closed using non-penetrating clips; lumbar drains may be used selectively.
Main Results:
- The described technique facilitates direct visualization and management of the cyst's dural connection.
- Non-penetrating clips effectively close the cyst ostium.
Conclusions:
- Cyst wall resection is not necessary for treating MSMC.
- Closure of the cyst ostium is a sufficient and effective treatment strategy.


