Urodynamic findings in the tethered spinal cord: The effect of tethered cord division on lower urinary tract functions
Date
2001-04
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
George Thieme Verlag Kg
Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of division of the tethered spinal cord urodynamically in spinal dysraphic cases. Methods: Between 1995-1997 20 cases (11 males, 9 females) aged from 5 months to 13 fears with TSC were Investigated. 13 cases (65%) were classed as belonging to the myelomeningocele group and 5 cases (35%) to the spina bifida occulta group. We used a computerized urodynamic system to evaluate the functions of the lower urinary tracts pre- and postoperatively. The definitive diagnosis of cord tethering was made using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 19 cases (95%) and spinal ultrasound in 1 case (5%). Division of filum terminale and laminectomy were carried out in all cases by the Neurosurgery Department, and 2 cases with retethering were operated on twice. Results: All of these cases were assessed urodynamically in the preoperative and postoperative period. Significant improvements were noted in detrusor functions (35%); electromyography recordings (45%): high leak point pressures (55%) and anal and urinary continence (70%). Conclusion: Lower urinary tract dysfunctions secondary to tethered cord syndrome are very common in spinal dysraphic cases and significant improvements can be achieved with a judiciously timed division of the spinal tethered cord.
Description
Keywords
Spinal dysraphism, Tethered spinal cord syndrome, Urodynamics, Surgical release, Bladder function, Dysraphism, Myelomeningocele, Children, Symptoms, Infants, Pediatrics, Surgery
Citation
Balkan, E. vd. (2001). "Urodynamic findings in the tethered spinal cord: The effect of tethered cord division on lower urinary tract functions". European Journal of Pediatric Surgery, 11(2), 116-119.