Hemorrhagic lumbar facet cysts accompanying a spinal subdural hematoma at the same level

Abstract

Context

We present a rare and interesting case of hemorrhagic lumbar facet cysts accompanying a spinal subdural hematoma at the same level suggesting a possible mechanism by which spinal subdural hematomas can arise.

Findings

A 71-year-old man presented with persistent sciatic pain and intermittent claudication. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a multilocular mass lesion that showed high signal intensity in both T1- and T2-weighted images, and was located both inside and outside of the spinal canal. Computed tomographic myelography showed a cap-shaped block of the dural tube at L5 and computed tomography with L5–S facet arthrography demonstrated cystic masses. The patient was diagnosed with lumbar radiculopathy caused by hemorrhagic facet cysts, and then progressed to surgical treatment. Surgery revealed that the cysts contained blood clots, and intraoperative findings that the inside of the dural tube appeared blackish and that the dural tube was tensely ballooned after removal of the cysts led us to explorative durotomy. The durotomy demonstrated concentrated old blood pooling both in the dorsal and ventral subdural space, and these spaces were subsequently drained. After surgery, his sciatic pain and intermittent claudication resolved. There was no evidence of cyst mass recurrence at 2 years of follow-up.

Conclusion

We propose a newly described mechanism for the formation of spinal subdural hematomas. We recommend surgeons be alert to epidural lesions causing repeated acute compression of the dural tube, which can cause spinal subdural hematoma, and consider the possible coexistence of these lesions in diagnosis and strategic surgical decisions.     

Cranial fat dissemination following fat grafting for lumbar dural tear: First case report in the literature

Introduction and importanceDural tear and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is among the most common complications in lumbar spine surgery. Although primary dural suturing is the preferred method for repair, this is not always achievable specially with ventrolateral tears. Autologous fat grafting is one of the oldest and effective methods for dural repair which can also be used along with other methods of repair. This case report highlights a unique post spinal surgery complication with comment on how to avoid it. To our knowledge, this has not been previously reported in the literature.Case presentationThe authors report a sixty-seven-year-old male with lumbar pseudomeningocele and cranial fat dissemination following fat grafting for non suturable lumbar dural tear. This was demonstrated on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after her presented with low-pressure headache.Clinical discussionIntraoperative dural tear is one of the most common complications in spinal surgery. Methods for optimal dural repair including fat grafting have been described but the choice still heavily dependent on the surgeon’s preference and experience. Fat graft can migrate leading to potential undesirable further complications like hydrocephalus and aseptic meningitis.ConclusionCranial fat dissemination following fat grafting for lumbar dural tear should be recognized as a post-operative complication in lumbar spine surgery. It should be considered in case of hydrocephalus or aseptic meningitis post dural fat grafting. Surgeons should utilize adjunct methods to minimize its incidence.     

Spinal extradural arachnoid cyst

Background contextSpinal extradural arachnoid cysts are uncommon expanding lesions. Idiopathic arachnoid cysts are not associated with trauma or other inflammatory insults. If they enlarge, they usually present with progressive signs and symptoms of neural compression.PurposeTotal removal of the cyst and repair of the dural defect is the primary treatment for large thoracolumbar spinal extradural arachnoid cysts causing neurogenic claudication. Laminoplasty may prevent spinal deformities in long segmental involvement.Study designA clinical case was performed.Patient sampleWe report a case of 25-year-old man with 1-year history of progressive back pain radiating to both legs. His diagnosis was dorsal intraspinal extradural cystic lesion longing from the level of T11 to L2 on magnetic resonance imaging.Outcome MeasuresThe patient's pain levels were noted as he reported. Physiologic outcome was assessed on pre- and postoperative motor and sensory examination.MethodsThe patient underwent a T11–L2 laminotomy and radical cyst wall resection was performed. A small communication with the subarachnoid space was seen at the level of T12. It was sealed with tissue fibrinogen after repair with primary suture. Titanium miniplates were used for laminoplasty.ResultsFollow-up magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated cyst resolution, and neurologic examination revealed no sensory and motor deficit.ConclusionExtradural arachnoid cysts are primarily treated with total removal of the cyst wall and closure of the dural defect. Surgical treatment is curative for this rare lesion.     

Intradural Disc Herniation in the Setting of Congenital Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

IntroductionAccounting for an estimated 1.10-1.76% of all lumbar herniations, lumbar intradural disc herniation (IDH) occurs primarily in males during the fourth to fifth decades of life. While not validated, congenital lumbar spinal stenosis (CLSS) is implicated as one precipitating factor for IDH.Case reportWe report 28-year-old Hispanic female with CLSS, severe obesity, and degenerative disk disease, with a history of minimally invasive surgical (MIS) decompression for a large paracentral L4-5 disc herniation at 25. After three years, the patient developed sudden burning dysesthesias in the L4-5 dermatomes bilaterally and temporary leg weakness. Lumbar magnetic resonance imaging exhibited severe L4-5 spinal stenosis, and the patient underwent repeat MIS decompression, which again provided her with adequate symptom resolution. However, 20 days postoperatively she developed cauda equina syndrome with anal dysfunction, and bilateral leg and foot weakness. Upon open surgical exploration we discovered a tense L4-5 dural protrusion. After a dorsal durotomy, a large IDH with a ventral dural tear was identified. Subsequent to adequate debulking of the IDH, the ventral tear was repaired, and an expansile duraplasty was performed. Overall, the patient's bladder and bowel function, pain, hypoesthesia, and motor strength all improved. Two weeks after surgery she presented with a lumbar pseudomeningocele that was managed conservatively.ConclusionThis report not only highlights an atypical presentation of IDH and is the first case of CLSS linked with IDH, lending support to the hypothesis that CLSS can lead to IDH, but also provides a comprehensive review of IDHs.     

L5 radiculopathy caused by a ganglion cyst of the posterior longitudinal ligament in a teenager

Background contextThere is no previous report on the intraspinal ganglion cyst of the posterior longitudinal ligament in a teenager.PurposeTo report a case of radiculopathy caused by a ganglion cyst of the posterior longitudinal ligament in a teenager.Study designCase report.MethodsA 17-year-old male with a 4-month history of left L5 radicular pain was found to have an intraspinal cystic lesion causing radicular compression. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a cystic lesion located in the ventral side of the dura. The patient suffered from severe leg pain. As a result, a surgical operation was therefore performed.ResultsThe cyst containing jelly-like components and a hemorrhage was punctured and then extirpated. It originated from the posterior longitudinal ligament. A histological study revealed the cyst to be without any synovial layers.ConclusionsThis is the first report to describe a ganglion cyst originating from the posterior longitudinal ligament in a teenager. This possible etiology should be kept in mind for any other individuals displaying symptoms of spinal nerve root compression as well as disc herniation.     

Les plaies durales : à propos d’une série de 100 cas

IntroductionDural tears are a dreaded surgical incident because they are difficult to anticipate and may lead to serious complications.Materials and methodsThe French College of Neurosurgery analyzed 100 cases of dural tears declared on the physicians accreditation website from the Haute Autorité de santé (Regional Health Authority). A questionnaire on drainage, type of dural repair and bed rest duration was sent to 87 French neurosurgeons.ResultsThirty-six percent of patients with dural tears had a history of previous spinal surgery and the most common cause of tear was surgical fibrosis into the operative field for 30% of cases. Sixty-four percent had no history of spinal surgery and, in 33% of cases, the dural tear occurred during a surgery for herniated disc. Drainage was proposed case by case in 76% of cases, the patient was allowed to stand up at day 1 in 48% of cases. The treatment of dural tears combined different techniques including in situ injection of biological glue in 86% of cases. The most common complication was the need of wound repair procedure in 59.5% of cases, which was complicated by meningitis in 21.5% of cases.ConclusionThis study shows the lack of formal consensus about the procedure of repair, the method of drainage or the need to keep the patient bed ridden. This study highlights a relatively high frequency of dural tears, its potentially serious complications and stresses the need for prospective studies in order to define the appropriate action to undertake when faced with this type of incident.     

Hemorrhagic lumbar facet cysts accompanying a spinal subdural hematoma at the same level

Context

We present a rare and interesting case of hemorrhagic lumbar facet cysts accompanying a spinal subdural hematoma at the same level suggesting a possible mechanism by which spinal subdural hematomas can arise.

Findings

A 71-year-old man presented with persistent sciatic pain and intermittent claudication. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a multilocular mass lesion that showed high signal intensity in both T1- and T2-weighted images, and was located both inside and outside of the spinal canal. Computed tomographic myelography showed a cap-shaped block of the dural tube at L5 and computed tomography with L5–S facet arthrography demonstrated cystic masses. The patient was diagnosed with lumbar radiculopathy caused by hemorrhagic facet cysts, and then progressed to surgical treatment. Surgery revealed that the cysts contained blood clots, and intraoperative findings that the inside of the dural tube appeared blackish and that the dural tube was tensely ballooned after removal of the cysts led us to explorative durotomy. The durotomy demonstrated concentrated old blood pooling both in the dorsal and ventral subdural space, and these spaces were subsequently drained. After surgery, his sciatic pain and intermittent claudication resolved. There was no evidence of cyst mass recurrence at 2 years of follow-up.

Conclusion

We propose a newly described mechanism for the formation of spinal subdural hematomas. We recommend surgeons be alert to epidural lesions causing repeated acute compression of the dural tube, which can cause spinal subdural hematoma, and consider the possible coexistence of these lesions in diagnosis and strategic surgical decisions.     

Nerve root entrapment with pseudomeningocele after percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy: A case report

Context: Pseudomeningocele is a relatively uncommon postoperative complication of spine surgery. Although the condition tends to be asymptomatic and self-limiting, it may cause radicular pain and neurological defect due to herniation of the nerve root or the spinal cord. Its pathophysiology remains unclear. Only few cases with intraoperative photos have been reported.

Finding: We present a case of pseudomeningocele with nerve root entrapment after percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD). A 52-year-old man had undergone PELD for sciatic pain and showed good postoperative recovery. Unfortunately, he was readmitted for progressive right leg pain at six weeks after the surgery. After the failure of conservative therapy, he received PELD again to explore the surgical site. Intraoperatively, a pseudomeningocele-containing nerve root, herniating through a small defect in the dural sac, was identified. During the dissection process, the pseudomeningocele was broken, which led to entrapment of the nerve root. Thereafter, the microsurgical technique was adopted to relocate the nerve root into the thecae sac and to repair the dural tear by non-resorbable suture.

Conclusion: To our knowledge, this case report is the first documented instance of identification of a pseudomeningocele under an endoscope, and provides insights into the transformation of a pseudomeningocele into a cerebrospinal fluid fistula with nerve root entrapment. For neurological deficit caused by pseudomeningocele following PELD, operative revision by the microsurgery technique is the appropriate strategy.     

Association d’un kyste arachnoïdien et d’une hétérotopie de tissu glial dans le méat auditif interne

ObjectivesWe report a case of an association of an arachnoid cyst with heterotopic neuroglial tissue in the internal auditory canal.Material and methodsA 66-year-old woman consulted for cochleovestibular syndrome.ResultsMRI demonstrated a lesion with spontaneous hypersignal on T1- and T2-weighted images, instigating surgical exploration. We discovered a hematic arachnoid cyst associated with heterotopic neuroglial tissue arising in the internal auditory canal.ConclusionAn arachnoid cyst arising within the cerebellopontine angle or the internal auditory canal is a rare occurrence. Clinical manifestations are identical with those produced by a cochleovestibular schwannoma. MRI usually demonstrates a nonenhancing isointense cystic mass with cerebrospinal fluid on all sequences (hypointense on T1-weighted and hyperintense on T2-weighted images). These lesions are usually monitored. Spontaneous hypersignal on T1- and T2-weighted images makes diagnosis difficult, as in our case, leading to surgical exploration.     

Pigmented villonodular synovitis of a lumbar intervertebral facet joint

Background contextPigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a slowly progressive lesion of uncertain etiology that involves the synovial membrane of joints or tendon sheaths. Only rarely does PVNS affect the axial skeleton, where it arises from the vertebral articular facet joint. Its treatment and prognosis remains limited.PurposeTo describe our management in a patient with PVNS and to review previously published cases.Study designCase report.MethodsThis is a case report of a 59-year-old woman who presented left sciatica. Computed tomography (CT) imaging revealed a mixed sclerotic and lucent lesion affecting the left L4–L5 facet joint. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a diffusely infiltrative process that originated from the left inferior articular process of L4 vertebra with extension into the spinal canal. A total synovectomy with left L4 hemilaminectomy was performed. Left L5 root was decompressed with total microscopic tumor removal. Decompression of spinal canal and absence of the tumor was shown by MRI and CT scan after the operation.ResultsComplete resolution of the patient's complaints was achieved. Histopathological analysis was consistent with a diagnosis of PVNS.ConclusionsThe principle of surgical management of spinal lesions causing neurologic deficit is early surgical decompression. It is also important to totally remove the synovium, the origin of PVNS, to prevent the recurrence.     

A pure fluid-filled intradural cyst associated with intradural disc herniation and possible pathogenesis: a case report

Background contextLumbar intradural disc herniation (IDH) is rare, and intradural cyst associated with IDH is quite rare. Only seven cases of an intradural cyst associated with lumbar disc herniation have been reported, and all were gas-filled cysts. We report the first case, to our knowledge, of a fluid-filled intradural cyst associated with IDH.PurposeTo report an extremely rare case of a fluid-filled intradural cyst associated with lumbar IDH and suggests the possible pathogenesis.Study designCase report.MethodsAn 82-year-old woman presented with right leg pain and motor weakness. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans showed calcified lumbar disc herniation and an intradural cystic mass at the L1–L2 level. An MRI, which was performed 2 years before admission, showed an IDH without a cyst at the same level.ResultsSurgical resection of the intradural cyst was performed. Intraoperative finding showed a fluid-filled intradural cyst with 1-cm diameter of displacing nerve rootlets. The cyst was connected with extradural cystic components through a ventral dural hole, but the tract was blocked by fibrous septum. Histopathologic examination showed a pseudocyst that consisted of degenerative cartilaginous and fibrous tissues, including degenerative disc materials. We concluded that the cyst was an intradural cyst transformed from the intradural disc fragment.ConclusionsThe current case is the first report to our knowlege of a fluid-filled intradural cyst associated with IDH. The possible mechanism may be focal degeneration and spontaneous absorption of the intradural disc with fluid production. Unlike the gas-filled intradural cysts, the cause of the pure fluid-filled cyst may be disconnection from the intervertebral vacuum because of a calcified disc and septation of the cyst.     

老年腰椎椎管狭窄症患者术中硬膜囊撕裂位置及术中术后处理对策

目的探讨老年腰椎椎管狭窄症患者手术发生硬膜囊撕裂的解剖学机制,比较撕裂位置及术中、术后处理对策。方法回顾性分析2012年01月~2014年01月本院行腰椎后路手术的216例〉70岁老年患者,记录患者一般资料、病程时间、术前诊断、手术方式和节段、术中硬膜囊撕裂的位置、术后脑脊液漏情况和处理方法以及并发症等。结果共计151例患者入选,其中男89例,女62例,年龄70~93岁,平均78.12岁。术中发生硬膜囊撕裂共计34例,术后出现脑脊液漏23例,硬膜囊撕裂位置发生率硬膜囊后外侧〉根袖〉硬膜囊外侧〉硬膜囊腹侧。术中采取硬膜囊缝合修补、明胶海绵压迫、生物蛋白胶粘合等处理,术后常规给予预防感染、神经根脱水、补液等治疗,均于术后3~10 d拔管,3~4周切口愈合,全部患者未出现严重并发症。结论 〉70岁老年腰椎椎管狭窄症患者术中硬膜囊撕裂及术后脑脊液漏的发生率高于整体人群,且多位于硬膜囊后外侧及根袖,术中及时发现并仔细缝合或修补破损的硬膜、术后间断夹闭引流管、延长拔管时间能获得良好的效果。     

Endoscopic resection of cystic lesions in the lumbar spinal canal: a report of two cases.

We report excellent outcomes in two patients with cystic lesions in the lumbar spinal canal who underwent resection using the METRx micro-endoscopic discectomy (MED) system. Pathological examinations revealed the diagnoses of a synovial cyst and a discal cyst, respectively. Both of them were allowed to walk the next day after surgery with complete pain relief. Micro-endoscopic surgery provides excellent visualization of the spinal canal and allows minimally invasive removal of the pathological lesions. This technique can be an effective alternative to conventional open surgery for cystic lesions in the lumbar spine.     

Acinetobacter baumanii meningitis: a rare complication of incidental durotomy

Despite the frequency of dural tears in spinal surgery, meningitis is a rare complication reported to occur with a frequency of 0.18%. To the best of our knowledge, no case of Acinetobacter baumanii meningitis has been reported in the literature after a dural tear secondary to lumbar spine discectomy. This case highlights the importance of repairing all dural tears and commencing antibiotics that cover uncommon bacteria in those who develop symptoms of meningitis in this setting.     

Subdural hematoma after microdiscectomy: a case report and review of the literature

Background contextSubdural hematomas (SDHs) have been described as a rare complication from durotomy after lumbar spine surgery. In half of the reported cases, the durotomy was unnoticed intraoperatively. The most common presenting symptom was persistent headache.PurposeTo report a case of SDH after routine microdiscectomy and to review the literature.Study designCase report and review of the literature.MethodsRetrospective review of patient's history and imaging studies.ResultsA 39-year-old female underwent routine microdiscectomy for L5–S1 herniated disc. There were no complications, and no dural tear was noted. Approximately 1 week postoperatively, the patient complained of severe headaches. Imaging revealed a right intracranial chronic SDH and a lumbar pseudomeningocele. Operative exploration of her lumbar wound revealed a dural tear, which was closed primarily. The patient had subsequent resolution of her SDH.ConclusionsThe authors present a case of a routine microdiscectomy complicated by delayed cerebrospinal leak causing a chronic SDH. This report illustrates the need for a comprehensive evaluation of headaches after spine surgery.     

Huge thoracolumbar extradural arachnoid cyst excised by recapping T-saw laminoplasty

Background context

Spinal extradural arachnoid cysts are rare expanding lesions in the spinal canal. Total removal of the cyst and repair of the dural defect is the primary treatment for symptomatic spinal extradural arachnoid cysts.

Purpose

To report the usefulness of recapping T-saw laminoplasty in treating huge extradural arachnoid cyst.

Study design

Case report.

Methods

We report the case of a 43-year-old man who presented with a 2-year history of progressive muscle weakness and numbness of the lower extremities. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a huge extradural arachnoid cyst at the T12–L3 level extending into bilateral neural foramina and severe posterior compression of the spinal cord and cauda equina.

Results

The patient underwent total resection of the cyst and closure of the communication. En bloc recapping T-saw laminoplasty of T12–L2 including the T12–L1 and L1–L2 facet joints was performed to obtain extensive exposure and preserve posterior stability. Postoperatively, the patient achieved complete recovery of neurologic functions. Follow-up MRI demonstrated no recurrence of the cyst. Bone union after laminoplasty was obtained within 6 months.

Conclusion

Total resection of the cyst and closure of the communication is curative for this rare lesion. Recapping T-saw laminoplasty provides extensive exposure for removal of a large cyst while allowing complete preservation of the posterior spinal elements.     

Incidental durotomy in lumbar spine surgery: incidence and management

There is increasing awareness of the need to inform patients of common complications that occur during surgical procedures. During lumbar spine surgery, incidental tear of the dural sac and subsequent cerebrospinal fluid leak is possibly the most frequently occurring complication. There is no consensus in the literature about the rate of dural tears in spine surgery. We have undertaken this study to evaluate the incidence of dural tears among spine surgeons in the United Kingdom for commonly performed spinal procedures. Prospective data was gathered for 1,549 cases across 14 institutions in the United Kingdom. The results give us a baseline rate for the incidence of dural tears. The rate was 3.5% for primary discectomy, 8.5% for spinal stenosis surgery and 13.2% for revision discectomy. There was a wide variation in the actual and estimated rates of dural tears among the spine surgeons. The results confirm that prospective data collection by spine surgeons is the most efficient and accurate way to assess complication rates for spinal surgery.This research was carried out at the Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK.     

Spontaneous resolution of tetraparesis because of postoperative cervical epidural hematoma

Background contextSymptomatic postoperative spinal epidural hematoma (PSEH) is a rare but potentially devastating postoperative complication, accounting for 0.1% to 0.2% of cases.PurposeTo describe a patient with a PSEH that completely resolved, clinically and radiographically, without surgical treatment.Study designCase report and review of the literature.MethodsA 47-year-old man with no history of a bleeding disorder underwent anterior cervical interbody fusion for C5–C6 disc herniation. The dura was exposed through removal of the posterior longitudinal ligament, and extensive decompression of posterior osteophytes of C5 and C6 vertebral bodies was performed. The patient developed tetraparesis and respiratory distress rapidly in the postanesthesia care unit and was reintubated for assisted ventilation. The computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a very large ventral epidural hematoma compressing the dural sac from C1 to C6.ResultsThe patient was prepared for hematoma evacuation. However, the neurological symptoms and respiration problems began to resolve spontaneously before the surgery was started. The hematoma was markedly improved on the follow-up CT scan, and the patient was discharged 2 weeks after surgery without neurological deficit.ConclusionsThis case illustrates that an unpredictable extensive hematoma can occur after uneventful surgery of the cervical spine in low-risk patients. In case of the dural exposure with a creation of hidden and large epidural space, the spine surgeon must pay particular attention to the possibility of a PSEH during the early postoperative period.     

MRI中椎管及硬膜囊大小与单节段腰椎间盘突出症治疗的相关性研究

目的:探讨MRI中椎管及硬膜囊大小对椎间盘突出症治疗方法选择的参考价值。方法:对2010年1月至2012年12月非手术和手术治疗的144例腰椎间盘突出症患者的临床资料进行回顾性分析。其中非手术组91例,男55例,女36例,年龄20～ 68岁,平均(43.37±12.48)岁;手术组53例,男28例,女25例,年龄20～ 64岁,平均(42.98±12.95)岁。采用JOA评分(29 分)对两组患者治疗前后的临床表现(包括症状、体征、日常活动受限度和膀胱功能)及效果进行量化评价。同时在腰椎MRI T2轴位测量椎管和硬膜囊大小的相关参数(包括椎管正中矢径和有效矢径、侧隐窝宽度、椎管和硬膜囊面积),并计算有效矢径/正中矢径、隐窝宽度/正中矢径和膜囊面积/椎管面积的比值。将两组患者的各参数值进行统计学比较,并分析其与治疗前JOA评分的相关性。结果:(1)144例患者随访1～3年,平均2.1年。治疗前非手术组和手术组的JOA评分分别为16.27±2.96和12.64±3.30,差异有统计学意义(t=6.319,p<0.01).末次随访非手术组与手术组比较,JOA评分(25.41±2.22 vs 25.76±2.29;t=-0.853,p=0.396>0.05),改善率[(72.95±12.54)% vs (76.80±9.45)%;t=-1.855,p=0.065>0.05]和优良率(84.91% vs 78.02%;χ₂=3.704,p=0.295>0.05)的差异均无统计学意义;但非手术组的复发率(14.29%)较手术组(5.67%)高。(2)手术组椎管正中矢径和有效矢径、侧隐窝宽度、椎管和硬膜囊面积、有效矢径/正中矢径、隐窝宽度/正中矢径均小于非手术组,硬膜囊面积/椎管面积则大于非手术组,两组比较差异均有统计学意义(p<0.01).(3)治疗前JOA评分与椎管正中矢径和有效矢径、侧隐窝宽度、椎管及硬膜囊面积有正相关性(p<0.01);与有效矢径/正中矢径、侧隐窝宽度/正中矢径也有正相关性(p<0.05);而与硬膜囊面积/椎管面积有负相关性(p<0.01).结论:非手术和手术治疗腰椎间盘突出症均能获得良好的效果,但非手术治疗复发率较高。术前测量椎管及硬膜囊的MRI参数对椎间盘突出症治疗方法的选择有一定的临床参考价值,但需要进一步完善和临床验证。