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Updated: Jul 17, 2025

Dissection and Lateral Mounting of Zebrafish Embryos: Analysis of Spinal Cord Development
Published on: February 28, 2014
Gastrulation and Split Cord Malformation
Zubair Tahir1, Claudia Craven2
1Great Ormond Street Children Hospital, London, UK. zubair.tahir@gosh.nhs.uk.
Abstract:
Split cord malformation (SCM) is a rare form of closed spinal dysraphism, in which two hemi-cords are present, instead of a single spinal cord. SCM is categorised into type 1 and type 2. Type 1 SCM is defined by the presence of a bony or osseocartilaginous spur between the hemi-cords, whereas type 2 SCM has no bony spur, and the two hemi-cords are contained within a single dura. In this chapter, we present the putative mechanisms by which SCM arises, including gastrulation defects and Pang's unified theory. The typical and rare clinical presentations and variations are described. Finally, we outline the step-by-step surgical approach to both SCM 1 and 2 and the overall prognosis of both conditions.
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