Silastic dural substitute: experience of its use in spinal and foramen magnum surgery

In an attempt to prevent tethering following intradural procedures in the spine or at the foramen magnum silastic film has been inserted as a dural substitute. Magnetic resonance imaging has enabled us to judge the effectiveness of this material in preventing tethering at the operative site. Our experience of Silastic dura substitute in 43 paediatric and adult cases is discussed, and illustrated together with a description of the technique of insertion and an analysis of the complications associated with its use.