Türk Nöroşirürji Dergisi
2016 , Vol 26 , Num 1
Diastematomyelia Diagnosed by Neurogenic Claudication in an Adult
Bülent Ecevit Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi, Beyin ve Sinir Cerrahisi Anabilim Dalı, Zonguldak, Türkiye
Diastematomyelia -a form of congenital spinal dysraphism- is characterized by division of the neural chest into two. Usually the lower
thoracic–upper lumbar region is affected. Generally, it is diagnosed in childhood with neurocutaneous and orthopedic problems. It
is unknown how frequently asymptomatic diastematomyelia occurs in adults. The most common complaints are radicular pain and
low back pain. Presentation with neurogenic claudication solely is extremely rare. A 72-year-old male with diastematomyelia, who
had not been diagnosed and had no complaint before, is presented in this report. He had progressive neurogenic claudication for a
year. Total resection of the bony spur at the L2 level was performed and then the nerve structures were combined in one dural sheath
with duraplasty. Besides, filum terminale was released at the L5 level. At 6 months follow-up, complete resolution of his symptoms
was recorded. Diastematomyelia should be considered in the differential diagnosis in patient with neurogenic claudication.
Anahtar Kelimeler :
Diastematomyelia, Neurogenic claudication, Split cord malformation