Novel Concepts in Spine Pathophysiology

Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2016 Apr:41 Suppl 7:S25-6. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000001433.

Abstract

Tethered cord syndrome (TCS) occurs as a constellation of neurologic signs and symptoms resulting from longitudinal traction on the spinal cord between fixed points. This condition involves a tug-of-war between ascent and inhibition of ascent of intrathecal nervous tissue within the vertebral canal during growth. Causes include thickened filum terminale, myelomeningocele, split cord malformation, and previous intradural surgery. Patients report low back, lower extremity, and perineal pain; lower extremity sensory and motor deficits; urinary and bowel incontinence; and sexual dysfunction. When not treated early or adequately, TCS can lead to neurologic devastation.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Neural Tube Defects* / diagnostic imaging
  • Neural Tube Defects* / physiopathology
  • Neural Tube Defects* / surgery
  • Osteotomy
  • Spinal Cord Injuries* / diagnostic imaging
  • Spinal Cord Injuries* / physiopathology
  • Spinal Cord Injuries* / surgery
  • Spinal Cord* / blood supply
  • Spinal Cord* / diagnostic imaging
  • Spinal Cord* / physiopathology
  • Spinal Cord* / surgery