Post-traumatic syringomyelia: the results of surgery

Between 1973 and 1982 twenty-seven patients with post-traumatic syringomyelia had operations performed to drain the cyst. Three types of operation were performed, cord transection, tube syringostomy to the sub-arachnoid space and tube syringostomy to the peritoneal cavity. Five patients developed proven blockage of their catheters. The results are presented. Pain was dramatically and gratifyingly improved in 14 patients. Motor power showed the most consistent improvement in 14 patients. Only eight patients showed the most consistent improvement in 14 patients. Only eight patients showed sensory improvement; this was the least likely to improve. The progress of the condition could be arrested in the majority of cases, but a small number continued to deteriorate and required further operations.