Tethered cord syndrome

Not Verified
This information is AI generated and has not yet been reviewed by a specialist physician. AI can make mistakes

Disease overview

mostly in utero/newborn/infants but can be diagnosed as late as adulthood: Tissue attachments, often at the base of the spinal cord, limit its movement and cause stretch tension on the spinal cord.

Common symptoms

Progressive leg and lower back painleg numbnessgait disturbancesleg and spine deformitybladder and bowel incontinence. Often linked with spina bifida.

WHEN TO SUSPECT

  • Recommendation 1

    MRI imaging to observe position/attachment of spinal cord

  • Recommendation 2

    can also use CT and myelogram.

HOW TO TEST

  • Recommendation 1

    MRI imaging to observe position/attachment of spinal cord

  • Recommendation 2

    can also use CT and myelogram.

TREATMENT

  • Recommendation 1

    Surgical untethering recommended for all children to prevent progressive deterioration

  • Recommendation 2

    recommended for all symptomatic adults.

PRIMARY CARE

  • Recommendation 1

    Physical therapy can be benficial in postsurgical recovery. 10-20% of children may need a second untethering surgery if symptoms return.

FURTHER SUPPORT

  • Recommendation 1

    Referral to neurosurgery for treatment and physical therapy for follow-up care. Referral to Medical Genetics Department, if available. Initial virtual care is also available through organizations like TeleRare Health.

CLINICAL TRIALS

  • Recommendation 1

    One clinical trial in the US is recruiting (NYC, New York)

  • Recommendation 2

    there are additional international trials.

Sources

No data available

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