Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 4, 2026
05:53
Intraoperative Ultrasound in Spinal Surgery
Published on: August 17, 2022
Transdural spinal cord herniation: imaging and clinical spectra
M R Watters1, J C Stears, A G Osborn
1Division of Neurology, University of Hawaii School of Medicine, USA.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|September 3, 1998
Summary
Transdural spinal cord herniation is rare, often occurring post-traumatically or spontaneously. This study details new imaging and clinical findings in five cases, expanding understanding of this condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Transdural spinal cord herniation is an uncommon condition, with limited data available, particularly from before the widespread use of advanced imaging techniques like MRI.
- Understanding the full spectrum of clinical presentations and imaging characteristics is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- This study presents five new cases of transdural spinal cord herniation, analyzed alongside 25 previously reported cases.
- Imaging modalities included MRI, CT myelography, and conventional myelography.
- Clinical data and intraoperative findings were correlated with imaging results.
Findings:
- Etiologies included post-traumatic (3 cases), iatrogenic (1 case), and spontaneous (1 case) origins.
- Novel imaging findings identified were dorsally directed herniations, apparent syringomyelia, a vertebral body nuclear trail sign, and intramedullary hyperintensities on MRI.
- New clinical observations included unilateral pyramidal-sensory deficits and isolated unilateral pyramidal signs, alongside previously reported progressive paraparesis and Brown-Séquard syndrome.
Implications:
- The findings expand the known clinical and imaging spectrum of transdural spinal cord herniation.
- This comprehensive review aids in better recognizing and diagnosing this rare condition.
- Improved understanding may lead to earlier detection and more effective treatment strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
01:20Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
The key difference between Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) lies in their location and severity.Clinical ManifestationsSVT typically presents with localized pain, tenderness, and redness along the course of a superficial vein, often accompanied by a palpable, cord-like structure under the skin. This condition is usually less dangerous than DVT but can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications such as cellulitis or, rarely, a clot extension into the deep...
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...