Ch16 Primary Spinal Anomalies Flashcards
What is the typical location of a spinal arachnoid cyst?
Almost always dorsal. If ventral then think of neurenteric cyst or arachnoiditis
What are the treatment options for arachnoid cysts?
Drainage, resection, fenestration and shunting (cysto-peritoneal)
What is spina bifida occulta?
Congenital absence of the spinous process +/- other posterior elements with no exposure of the meninges or neural tissue. Incidence = 10%
What is a meningocele?
Herniation of the meninges but not neural diffuse through spinal defect
What is a myelomeningocele?
Herniation of the meninges and neural tissue through a spinal defect
When does the cranial neuropore close?
Day 25
When does the caudal neuropore close?
Day 28
What is the incidence of spina bifida (myelomeningocele)?
1 in 1,000
What lowers the incidence of myelomeningocele?
Folate supplementation
What is the incidence of hydrocephalus with myelomeningocele?
80%. Note closure of the defect converts a latent hydrocephalus to a active one as there is no other route for CSF egress
What allergy is commonly found in patients with myelomeningocele?
Latex allergy in 75%
What does the MOMS study show?
Intrauterine closure of myelomeningocele reduces incidence of hydrocephalus and type 2 chiari.
How do you manage a fetus with spina bifida?
Measure size of defect
If ruptured then start abx
Cover with sterile dressing to prevent dessication
Lie patient on stomach to prevent pressure on MM
Closure within 24 hours
Following surgical closure of a myelomeningocele what are good prognostic signs?
Spontaneous movement of the LLs No chiari 2 (if present check for stridor and apnoeas) No HCP (do head USS)
Why do patients with sacral myelomeningocele get clawing of the feet?
As the foot intrinsics are supplied by S1-3
What other anomalies are associated with myelomeningoceles?
Pulmonary immaturity
Bladder dysfunction (need catheterization)
Scoliosis
Hip and knee deformities