Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Intraoperative Ultrasound in Spinal Surgery
Published on: August 17, 2022
Posterior thecal lumbar disc herniation mimicking synovial cyst
D E Sakas1, M A Farrell, S Young
1National Centre for Neurosurgery, Richmond Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Republic of Ireland.
Abstract:
We describe a 70 year-old-patient with a rare, misleading presentation of lumbar disc prolapse, which on CT mimicked a synovial cyst. The whole nucleus pulposus had herniated, become sequestrated, and migrated behind the theca adjacent to the L4-5 facet joint. There was no continuity of the disc material with the intervertebral space. A fenestration was performed and the sequestrated disc material was found free of adhesions, and removed completely without difficulty. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis. The patient had complete relief from his pain.
Related Concept Videos
Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Degenerative Disc Disease I: Introduction
Degenerative Disc Disease ll: Pathophysiology

