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Eur J Pediatr Surg 1992; 2: 26-28
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1063495
Original article

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

A Report of Children with Spinal Dysraphism Managed Conservatively

M.  Jamil , C. M. Bannister
  • Department of Neurosurgery, Booth Hall Children's Hospital, Charlestown Road, Blackley, Manchester, England M9 2AA
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Publication History

Publication Date:
25 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

This investigation is a retrospective study of 12 patients with spinal dysraphism. There were 5 males and 7 females in the cohort. Their ages ranged from 4 to 13 years at the time of their last assessment.

Initial presentation included one or more of the following - a blemish on the back in the midline (lump, hairy patch, sinus and/or angioma), abnormal neurological signs and symptoms in one or both legs, and in one case dribbling of urine.

Investigations performed included plain X-rays of the spine, CT scans alone or in combination with a myelogram and MR scans. Findings included thickened filum terminale, low lying cord, lipoma, syringomyelia, diastematomyelia, spina bifida occulta and sacral agenesis.

The children were followed up for between 2 and 10 years. During the period of observation, none developed new symptoms or signs, and there was no progression of existing neurological deficits.

This preliminary report suggests that there is no justification for prophylactic surgery in this group of patients.

Key words

Spinal dysraphism - Conservative management

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