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Findlay MC, Tenhoeve S, Terry SA, Iyer RR, Brockmeyer DL, Kelly MP, Kestle JRW, Gonda D, Ravindra VM. Disparities in indications and outcomes reporting for pediatric tethered cord surgery: The need for a standardized outcome assessment tool. Childs Nerv Syst 2024; 40:1111-1120. [PMID: 38072858 PMCID: PMC10972940 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-06246-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Tethered cord syndrome (TCS) is characterized by abnormal attachment of the spinal cord neural elements to surrounding tissues. The most common symptoms include pain, motor or sensory dysfunction, and urologic deficits. Although TCS is common in children, there is a significant heterogeneity in outcomes reporting. We systematically reviewed surgical indications and postoperative outcomes to assess the need for a grading/classification system. METHODS PubMed and EMBASE searches identified pediatric TCS literature published between 1950 and 2023. Studies reporting surgical interventions, ≥ 6-month follow-up, and ≥ 5 patients were included. RESULTS Fifty-five studies representing 3798 patients were included. The most commonly reported non-urologic symptoms were nonspecific lower-extremity motor disturbances (36.4% of studies), lower-extremity/back pain (32.7%), nonspecific lower-extremity sensory disturbances (29.1%), gait abnormalities (29.1%), and nonspecific bowel dysfunction/fecal incontinence (25.5%). Urologic symptoms were most commonly reported as nonspecific complaints (40.0%). After detethering surgery, retethering was the most widely reported non-urologic outcome (40.0%), followed by other nonspecific findings: motor deficits (32.7%), lower-extremity/back/perianal pain (18.2%), gait/ambulation function (18.2%), sensory deficits (12.7%), and bowel deficits/fecal incontinence (12.7%). Commonly reported urologic outcomes included nonspecific bladder/urinary deficits (27.3%), bladder capacity (20.0%), bladder compliance (18.2%), urinary incontinence/enuresis/neurogenic bladder (18.2%), and nonspecific urodynamics/urodynamics score change (16.4%). CONCLUSION TCS surgical literature is highly variable regarding surgical indications and reporting of postsurgical outcomes. The lack of common data elements and consistent quantitative measures inhibits higher-level analysis. The development and validation of a standardized outcomes measurement tool-ideally encompassing both patient-reported outcome and objective measures-would significantly benefit future TCS research and surgical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Findlay
- School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neurosciences Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Samuel Tenhoeve
- School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Skyler A Terry
- College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Rajiv R Iyer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neurosciences Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Douglas L Brockmeyer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neurosciences Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Michael P Kelly
- Division of Pediatric Orthopedics, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - John R W Kestle
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neurosciences Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - David Gonda
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Vijay M Ravindra
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neurosciences Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Naval Medical Center San Diego, 34800 Bob Wilson Drive, San Diego, CA 92134, USA.
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Hara T, Ohara Y, Kondo A. Diagnosis and Management of Tethered Cord Syndrome. Adv Tech Stand Neurosurg 2024; 49:35-50. [PMID: 38700679 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-42398-7_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Tethered cord syndrome is a condition in which the spinal cord is tethered by pathological structures such as a tight filum terminale, intradural lipomas with or without a connecting extradural component, intradural fibrous adhesions, diastematomyelia, and neural placode adhesions following closure of a myelomeningocele.It usually occurs in childhood and adolescence as the spine grows in length, but it can also develop in adulthood. Symptoms of tethered cord syndrome are slowly progressive and varied. Incorrect diagnosis and inappropriate treatment may be provided if the physician lacks knowledge and understanding of this disease.This chapter aims to describe the pathophysiology, syndromes, diagnostic imaging, surgical treatment, and prognosis of tethered cord syndrome to enhance the understanding of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Hara
- Department of Neurosurgery, Spine and Spinal Cord Center, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Yukoh Ohara
- Department of Neurosurgery, Spine and Spinal Cord Center, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihide Kondo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Spine and Spinal Cord Center, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Tanaka M, Sonawane S, Arataki S, Fujiwara Y, Taoka T, Uotani K, Oda Y, Shinohara K. New Spinal Shortening Technique for Tethered Cord Syndrome: A Technical Note. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 60:20. [PMID: 38256281 PMCID: PMC10818319 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: To present a new spinal shortening technique for tethered cord syndrome. Tethered cord syndrome (TCS) is a debilitating condition leading to progressive neurological decline. Surgical detethering for TCS is the gold standard of treatment. However, symptomatic retethering of TCS has been reported in 5%-50% of patients after initial release. To solve this problem, posterior spinal shortening osteotomy has been reported. This technique has risks of massive blood loss and neurological deterioration. The authors hereby report a new safe spinal shortening technique for tethered cord syndrome. Materials and Methods: A 31-year-old man with gait disturbance was referred to our hospital. After the delivery of treatment, he underwent surgical untethering of the spinal cord in another hospital. He had hyperreflexia of the Achilles tendon reflex and bilateral muscle weakness of the legs (MMT 3-4). He also had urinary and bowel incontinence, and total sensory loss below L5. An anteroposterior lumbar radiogram indicated partial laminectomy of L3 and L4. Lumbar MRI showed retethering of spinal cord. Results: The patient underwent a new spinal shortening technique for tethered cord syndrome under the guidance of O-arm navigation. First, from the anterior approach, disectomy from T12 to L3 was performed. Second, from the posterior approach, Ponte osteotomy was performed from T12 to L3, shortening the spinal column by 15 mm. The patient was successfully treated surgically. Postoperative lumbar MRI showed that the tension of the spinal cord was released. Manual muscle testing results and the sensory function of the left leg had recovered almost fully upon final follow-up at one year. Conclusions: A retethered spinal cord after initial untethering is difficult to treat. This new spinal shortening technique can represent another good option to release the tension of the spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masato Tanaka
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama Rosai Hospital, Okayama 702-8055, Japan; (S.S.); (S.A.); (Y.F.); (T.T.)
| | - Sumeet Sonawane
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama Rosai Hospital, Okayama 702-8055, Japan; (S.S.); (S.A.); (Y.F.); (T.T.)
| | - Shinya Arataki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama Rosai Hospital, Okayama 702-8055, Japan; (S.S.); (S.A.); (Y.F.); (T.T.)
| | - Yoshihiro Fujiwara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama Rosai Hospital, Okayama 702-8055, Japan; (S.S.); (S.A.); (Y.F.); (T.T.)
| | - Takuya Taoka
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama Rosai Hospital, Okayama 702-8055, Japan; (S.S.); (S.A.); (Y.F.); (T.T.)
| | - Koji Uotani
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan; (K.U.); (Y.O.); (K.S.)
| | - Yoshiaki Oda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan; (K.U.); (Y.O.); (K.S.)
| | - Kensuke Shinohara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan; (K.U.); (Y.O.); (K.S.)
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Abdulrazeq H, Leary OP, Tang OY, Karimi H, McElroy A, Gokaslan Z, Punsoni M, Donahue JE, Klinge PM. The Surgical Histopathology of the Filum Terminale: Findings from a Large Series of Patients with Tethered Cord Syndrome. J Clin Med 2023; 13:6. [PMID: 38202013 PMCID: PMC10779556 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence of embryonic and connective tissue elements in the filum terminale (FT) of patients with tethered cord syndrome (TCS), examining both typical and pathological histology. The FT specimens from 288 patients who underwent spinal cord detethering from 2013 to 2021 were analyzed. The histopathological examination involved routine hematoxylin and eosin staining and specific immunohistochemistry when needed. The patient details were extracted from electronic medical records. The study found that 97.6% of the FT specimens had peripheral nerves, and 70.8% had regular ependymal cell linings. Other findings included ependymal cysts and canals, ganglion cells, neuropil, and prominent vascular features. Notably, 41% showed fatty infiltration, and 7.6% had dystrophic calcification. Inflammatory infiltrates, an underreported finding, were observed in 3.8% of the specimens. The research highlights peripheral nerves and ganglion cells as natural components of the FT, with ependymal cell overgrowth and other tissues potentially linked to TCS. Enlarged vessels may suggest venous congestion due to altered FT mechanics. The presence of lymphocytic infiltrations and calcifications provides new insights into structural changes and mechanical stress in the FT, contributing to our understanding of TCS pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hael Abdulrazeq
- Department of Neurosurgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (O.P.L.); (J.E.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Owen P. Leary
- Department of Neurosurgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (O.P.L.); (J.E.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Oliver Y. Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (O.Y.T.)
| | - Helen Karimi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tufts Medical School, Boston, MA 02111, USA;
| | - Abigail McElroy
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (O.Y.T.)
| | - Ziya Gokaslan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (O.P.L.); (J.E.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Michael Punsoni
- Department of Neurosurgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (O.P.L.); (J.E.D.)
- Laboratory Medicine, Department of Pathology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - John E. Donahue
- Department of Neurosurgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (O.P.L.); (J.E.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Laboratory Medicine, Department of Pathology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Petra M. Klinge
- Department of Neurosurgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (O.P.L.); (J.E.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI 02903, USA
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Almotairi FS, Basalamah AA, Amir A, Al-Habib AF. Intraoperative demonstration of reduced distal spinal cord stiffness following untethering of the spinal cord using ultrasound shear wave elastography (SWE). World Neurosurg X 2023; 20:100225. [PMID: 37456688 PMCID: PMC10344799 DOI: 10.1016/j.wnsx.2023.100225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
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Vanegas Cerna G, Barrientos Castillo RE, Nurmukhametov R, Baldoncini M, López Lara CE, Rosario A, Ogando YE, Ramirez KM, Lafuente J, Chmutin GE, Montemurro N, Ramirez MDJE. Giant Invasive Intradural Extramedullary Lumbar Schwannoma: A Case Report and Literature Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e40708. [PMID: 37485228 PMCID: PMC10359865 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.40708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Schwannomas are benign nerve sheath tumors that arise from Schwann cells, which are responsible for producing the myelin sheath that surrounds nerves. They are typically slow-growing and can occur in various locations in the body, including the lumbar region of the spine. We present a case of giant invasive intradural extramedullary schwannoma managed with posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) and laminectomy with excellent results. A 58-year-old man presented with lower back pain radiating to the right leg for six months. He had no history of trauma or systemic disease. Lumbosacral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a well-defined mass at the L3-L4 level compressing the right nerve root. The patient was managed with L3-L4-L5 transpedicular fixation and right-side laminectomy L3-L4 for resection of the tumor. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of schwannoma. The patient had a favorable postoperative recovery and experienced a resolution of symptoms. Lumbar schwannomas are rare they can cause significant symptoms and require appropriate diagnosis and management. Microsurgery is the preferred treatment, and endoscopic microsurgery is the most promising technique.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Renat Nurmukhametov
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, RUS
| | - Matias Baldoncini
- Laboratory of Microsurgical Neuroanatomy, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, ARG
| | | | - Andreina Rosario
- Department of Anatomy, Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD), Santo Domingo, DOM
| | - Yamaurys E Ogando
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, RUS
| | - Karina M Ramirez
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, RUS
| | - Jesus Lafuente
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Hospital Universitario del Mar, Barcelona, ESP
| | - Gennady E Chmutin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, RUS
| | - Nicola Montemurro
- Department of Neurosurgery, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Pisana (AOUP), Pisa, ITA
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Gestational age-specific reference standards of low-lying conus medullaris level in fetuses: a prospective cohort study. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 39:997-1003. [PMID: 36538102 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-022-05802-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the position change of fetal conus medullaris by ultrasound, and to propose gestational age-specific references for the lower limits of fetal conus medullaris level. METHODS We prospectively collected the imaging and clinical data of fetuses whose mothers accepted routine prenatal ultrasonic follow-ups in the Department of Medical Ultrasonics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, between November 2020 and April 2021. By assigning to the conus medullaris levels, calculating statistical data, and performing linear regression analysis, we determined the correlation between the conus medullaris level and gestational week, as well as between the 95th percentile of the conus medullaris level, i.e., the lower limit of the conus medullaris level, and gestational week. RESULTS We included 1202 different fetuses at 17-40 gestational weeks in the study. Both the conus medullaris level and the 95th percentile of the conus medullaris level were linearly correlated with gestational week. We calculated the adjusted values of the lower limits of fetal conus medullaris levels, that is, the theoretical references of the lower limits, according to the linear regression equation, and composed a comparison table. CONCLUSION The fetal conus medullaris position continues changing cranially with gestational weeks during the whole pregnancy. The conus medullaris of a term fetus should not lie below the L2 vertebra level at birth. We proposed reference criteria of fetal low-lying conus medullaris for each gestational week from 17 to 40 weeks of gestational age, which potentially help prompt diagnosis and improve prognosis of fetal tethered cord syndrome.
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Klinge PM, McElroy A, Leary OP, Donahue JE, Mumford A, Brinker T, Gokaslan ZL. Not Just an Anchor: The Human Filum Terminale Contains Stretch Sensitive and Nociceptive Nerve Endings and Responds to Electrical Stimulation With Paraspinal Muscle Activation. Neurosurgery 2022; 91:618-624. [PMID: 35852974 PMCID: PMC9447435 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0000000000002081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural components of the fibrous filum terminale (FT) are well known but are considered as embryonic remnants without functionality. OBJECTIVE To investigate the ultrastructure of human FT specimens for sensory nerve endings and record paraspinal muscle activity on electrostimulation of the FT. METHODS We prospectively investigated a cohort of 53 patients who underwent excision of the FT for the treatment of tethered cord syndrome. Surgical FT specimens were investigated by light and transmission electron microscopy. Intraoperative electrophysiological routine monitoring was extended by recording paraspinal muscles above and below the laminotomy level. RESULTS Light microscopy revealed tiny peripheral nerves piercing the pia mater of the FT and entering its fibrous core. Transmission electron microscopy unveiled within the fibrous core of the FT myelinated nerve structures in 8 of the 53 patients and unmyelinated ones in 10 of the 53 patients. Both nerve endings encapsulated in fibrous tissue or unencapsulated nonmyelinated Schwann cell nerve bundles, that is, Remak cells, were found. Those nerve endings resembled mechanoreceptor and nociceptive receptor structures found in human skin, muscle tendons, and skeletal ligaments. Specifically, we found Ruffini mechanoreceptors and in addition nerve endings which resembled nociceptive glioneural structures of the skin. Bipolar electrostimulation of the FT was associated with paraspinal muscle activity above and below the spinal segment at which the FT was stimulated. CONCLUSION Morphological and electrophysiological results indicate the presence of functional sensory nerve endings in the FT. Like other spine ligaments, the FT may serve as a proprioceptive element but may also contribute to back pain in spine disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra M. Klinge
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Abigail McElroy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Owen P. Leary
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - John E. Donahue
- Department of Pathology, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Andrew Mumford
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Thomas Brinker
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical School Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ziya L. Gokaslan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Sacral Spina Bifida Occulta: A Frequency Analysis of Secular Change. ANTHROPOLOGICAL REVIEW 2022. [DOI: 10.18778/1898-6773.85.2.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Substantial relaxation of natural selection beginning around 1900 changed the mutation/selection balance of modern genetic material, producing an increase in variable anatomical structures. While multiple structures have been affected, the temporal increase in variations of the sacrum, specifically, ‘Sacral Spina Bifida Occulta,’ have been reliably demonstrated on a localised scale. Calculation of largescale frequency has been hindered by the localised nature of these publications, the morphological variability of this variation, and potential pathological associations, which have produced divergent classifications, and conflicting reported rates of occurrence. A systematic review of the reported literature was conducted to provide an objective analysis of Sacral Spina Bifida Occulta frequency from 2500 BCE to the present. This review was designed to compensate for observed inconsistencies in reporting and to ascertain, for the first time, the temporal trajectory of this secular trend. A systematic review of Sacral Spina Bifida Occulta literature was conducted through the strict use of clinical meta-analysis criteria. Publications were retrieved from four databases: PubMed, Embase, the Adelaide University Library database, and Google Scholar. Data were separated into three historical groups, (1 = <1900, 2 = 1900 to 1980 and 3 = >1980), and frequency outcomes compared, to determine temporal rates of occurrence.
A total of 39/409 publications were included in the final analysis, representing data for 16,167 sacra, spanning a period of 4,500 years. Statistically significant results were obtained, with total open S1 frequency increasing from 2.34%, (79 to 1900CE), to 4.80%, (1900 to 1980CE) and to 5.43% (>1980CE). These increases were significant at p<0.0001, with Chi-squared analysis. A clear secular increase in the global frequency of Sacral Spina Bifida Occulta has been demonstrated from 1900 to the present. This research provides a novel and adaptable framework for the future assessment of variation distribution, with important implications for the fields of biological anthropology and bioarchaeology.
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McVeigh LG, Anokwute MC, Chen S, Jea A. Spinal column shortening for tethered cord syndrome: a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2022; 29:624-633. [PMID: 35245903 DOI: 10.3171/2022.1.peds21503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Tethered cord release (TCR) is the gold standard treatment for tethered cord syndrome (TCS); however, there are significant shortcomings including high rates of retethering, especially in complex and recurrent cases. Spinal column shortening (SCS) is an alternative treatment for TCS intended to avoid these shortcomings. Early studies were limited to case reports and smaller case series; however, in recent years, larger case series and small cohort studies have been conducted. Given the increase in available data, a repeat systematic review and meta-analysis is warranted to assess the safety and efficacy of SCS for TCS. METHODS The authors conducted a systematic review using MEDLINE (OVID), Embase (Elsevier), and Web of Science records dating from 1944 to July 2021 to identify all articles investigating SCS for TCS. They performed standard and individual patient data (IPD) meta-analyses, with 2 independent reviewers using PRISMA-IPD guidelines. Primary outcomes were improvement of preoperative clinical symptoms of pain, motor weakness, and bladder and bowel dysfunction, and also surgical complication rate. Secondary outcomes included urodynamic improvement and health-related quality-of-life outcomes determined using patient-reported outcome tools. Individual study quality assessment was performed using a standardized assessment tool for case reports/series, and publication bias was assessed using funnel plot analyses. RESULTS The review yielded 15 studies with 191 cases of TCS treated with SCS. IPD were available in 11 studies with 89 cases. The average age at time of surgery was 28.0 years (range 5-76 years). The average follow-up time was 33.2 months (range 7-132 months). Improvement was observed at last follow-up in 60 of 70 (85.7%) patients with preoperative pain, in 38 of 60 (60.3%) patients with preoperative weakness, and in 36 of 76 (47.4%) patients with preoperative bladder or bowel dysfunction. Complications of CSF leak, new neurological deficit, wound infection, or reoperation occurred in 4 of 89 (4.5%) patients. CONCLUSIONS SCS may be considered a safe and efficacious treatment option for TCS in children and adults (level C evidence; class IIb recommendation), especially for recurrent and complex cases. Current evidence is likely to be affected by selection and publication bias. Prospective comparative studies of SCS and TCR for TCS are recommended to determine long-term duration of outcomes, long-term safety in skeletally immature children, and exact indications of SCS versus traditional TCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke G McVeigh
- 1Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Miracle C Anokwute
- 1Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Sixia Chen
- 2Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and
| | - Andrew Jea
- 3Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Oklahoma Children's Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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Klinge PM, Srivastava V, McElroy A, Leary OP, Ahmed Z, Donahue JE, Brinker T, De Vloo P, Gokaslan ZL. Diseased filum terminale as a cause of tethered cord syndrome in Ehlers Danlos syndrome: histopathology, biomechanics, clinical presentation, and outcome of filum excision. World Neurosurg 2022; 162:e492-e502. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Congenital Tethered Cord Presenting as Chronic Back Pain in a 29-Yr-Old Woman. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2021; 100:e162-e163. [PMID: 34673707 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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van Gerpen JA, Middlebrooks EH, Tipton PW. A movement disorder specialist gets a taste of his own medicine. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2020; 81:18-19. [PMID: 33035801 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2020.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
We present a case in which a movement disorder neurologist developed two different hyperkinetic movements due to corticospinal tract hyperexcitability, which resolved completely with surgical removal of an epidural spinal canal tumor. The first-hand description of these movements creates a unique opportunity for enhanced insight into these complex movement phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay A van Gerpen
- Department of Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Xu F, Wang X, Li L, Guan J, Jian F. Tethered Cord Syndrome Caused by Duplicated Filum Terminale in an Adult with Split Cord Malformation. World Neurosurg 2020; 143:7-10. [PMID: 32711136 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.07.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tethered cord syndrome (TCS) is a clinical diagnosis of progressive neurologic aggravation of the lower spinal cord due to a traction on the conus medullaris. Untethering surgery is effective for most TCS; however, when anatomic variations of spinal cord and filum terminale (FT) exist, regular untethering may lead to a failed outcome. CASE DESCRIPTION The authors present the case of a 45-year-old patient with TCS caused by duplicated FT with split cord malformation (SCM). Lumbosacral magnetic resonance imaging revealed a type II SCM with a significant low-lying conus medullaris. Laminectomy was performed. Neurophysiologic monitoring was used for nerve root identification and 2 thickened fila, which failed to respond on stimulation, were found during the surgery. Both fila were sectioned, and the diagnosis was finally confirmed by pathologic examination. Postoperatively, the patient's symptoms disappeared immediately and no neurologic sequela was found after surgery. CONCLUSIONS This is the first documented adult of duplicated FT with preoperative radiologic evidence and reported in association with SCM as a cause of TCS. When SCM exists, a careful observation for duplicated FT is warranted on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging and during surgery. Complete transection of the double FT under intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring is the best treatment for this anomaly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifan Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, China-INI, Beijing, P.R. China; Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Xingwen Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, China-INI, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Liang Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Jian Guan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, China-INI, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Fengzeng Jian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, China-INI, Beijing, P.R. China.
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Abdallah A. Letter to the Editor Regarding “Surgical Treatment of Tethered Cord Syndrome in Adults: A Systematic Review and Metanalysis”. World Neurosurg 2020; 139:645-647. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Milton CK, O’Connor KP, Martin MD. In Reply to the Letter to the Editor Regarding “Surgical Treatment of Tethered Cord Syndrome in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”. World Neurosurg 2020; 139:648. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Urinary Tract Anomalies in Patients With Anorectal Malformations: The Role of Screening and Clinical Follow-Up. Urology 2020; 143:216-220. [PMID: 32525076 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2020.05.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of the screening protocol and the clinical follow-up to detect urological anomalies (UA) in patients with ARM (ARM-P) in our institution. Secondary aim was to define the prevalence of UA and their relationship with severity of ARM. METHODS ARM-P were selected from a prospectively maintained database from 2000 to 2016. Exclusion criteria were: incomplete or with less than 3 years of follow-up and absence of surgical correction of the anorectal anomalies. Data from urological screening and follow-up were collected. Patients were divided into complex malformations (Group 1) and less complex malformations (Group 2). RESULTS One hundred seventeen of 149 were included in the study period (62 group 1, 55 group 2). UA were detected in 36/117 at birth (30.7%) with a difference between groups (P = .0005). VUR was detected in 16 (6 with hydronephrosis, 10 with normal ultrasound at birth). A bladder ultrasound after potty training showed 18 lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD; 15 with UA detected at birth, 3 with normal ultrasound). 8 LUTD were found during clinical follow-up, confirmed by ultrasound. Spinal MRI detected spinal cord anomalies (SCA) in 52/117 (44.4%). Considering the subgroups with neurogenic bladder and SCA there was a difference between groups (13/33 vs 1/19). CONCLUSION This study suggests that ARM-P are at increased risk of UA, most of which were detected on neonatal ultrasound. While screening protocol can show 88% of UA, follow-up can detect 12.9 % of total abnormalities without difference between groups. This data has to be considered when planning follow-up for these patients.
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