Türk Nöroşirürji Dergisi 2013 , Vol 23 , Num 2
Split Cord Malformations
Emrah EGEMEN1, Alp Özgün BÖRCEK2, Mustafa Kemali BAYKANER2
1Siirt Devlet Hastanesi, Beyin ve Sinir Cerrahisi Kliniği, Siirt, Türkiye
2Gazi Üniversitesi, Tıp Fakültesi, Pediyatrik Nöroşirürji Bilim Dalı, Ankara, Türkiye AIM: Split cord malformations are rare form of occult spinal dysraphism in children. Characteristic clinical manifestations are variable and asymptomatic course is possible. Even though radiological diagnosis is easy, the management of split cord malformations is still a subject for discussion. The aim of the present paper is to update the information regarding pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and management of these lesions.

MATERIAL and METHODS: All the pertinent literature was reviewed. Updated embryogenesis, classification, surgical technique and results are presented. Clinical manifestations and images of radiological manifestations in patients with split cord malformation who were treated in Gazi University between 2001 - 2012, are reported.

CONCLUSION: Split cord malformations may have various presentations and their management still remains unclear. They generally cause symptoms such as skin stigmata, neurologic and / or orthopedic issues. Even though some authors propose conservative treatment in asymptomatic patients, unique treatment method is surgery which provides good results. Anahtar Kelimeler : Split cord, Diastometamyelia, Spina bifida, Spina bifida occulta