Posttraumatic syringomyelia

Abstract

Posttraumatic syringomyelia (PTS) is associated with the development and progression of a cyst filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the spinal cord. PTS is identified clinically by the insidious decrease of sensorimotor function that may manifest in months and years after traumatic spinal cord events. If left untreated, PTS can result in loss of neurological function, chronic pain, respiratory failure, or death. The main objective of performing surgery for posttraumatic syringomyelia is to stop further development of disabling symptoms. The extension of syringomyelic cavity is the predictive factor of the efficacy of surgery for the isolated symptoms and deficits of syringomyelia. We reviewed recent diagnostic tools and various surgical treatments of posttraumatic syringomyelia. The purpose of this article is to assess various aspects of the posttraumatic syringomyelia and to discuss its pathophysiology and surgical options.