Yang DBY, Harms J, Iyer RK, Arnold P. Synovial cysts at the cervicothoracic junction: Illustrative series of three cases.
Surg Neurol Int 2023;
14:196. [PMID:
37404504 PMCID:
PMC10316244 DOI:
10.25259/sni_88_2023]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background
Spinal synovial cysts are an uncommon pathology, estimated to affect 0.65-2.6% of the population. Cervical spinal synovial cysts are even rarer, accounting for only 2.6% of spinal synovial cysts. They are more commonly found in the lumbar spine. When they occur, they can compress the spinal cord or surrounding nerve roots resulting in neurological symptoms, particularly when they increase in size. Decompression and cyst resection are the most common treatment and typically result in resolution of symptoms.
Methods
The authors present three cases of spinal synovial cysts occurring at the C7-T1 junction. They occurred in patients aged 47, 56, and 74, respectively, and presented with symptoms of pain and radiculopathy. Diagnosis was made with computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The cysts were managed with laminectomy, resection, and fusion.
Results
All patients reported full resolution of symptoms. There were no intra or postoperative complications.
Conclusion
Cervical spinal synovial cysts are an uncommon cause of radiculopathy and pain in the upper extremities. They can be diagnosed through CT scans and MRI, and treatment with laminectomy, resection, and fusion results in excellent outcomes.
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