What is the tethered conus medullaris of the spinal cord?
El tethered conus medullaris of the spinal cord It is a condition in which the lower part of the spinal cord becomes fixed in the lower spine, limiting its normal movement. This tension can progressively affect the nerves and cause neurological, motor, sensory, or urinary symptoms.
Although it can have a congenital origin, in some cases it is diagnosed in adulthood, especially when symptoms appear or worsen over time.
Symptoms of tethered conus medullaris
The symptoms of tethered cord syndrome can vary depending on the degree of tension on the spinal cord and nerves. The most common are:
- Lower back pain or pain in the lower back.
- Weakness in the legs.
- Dificulty to walk.
- Alterations in sensitivity.
- Urinary or intestinal problems.
- Foot deformities.
- Progressive worsening of neurological symptoms.
When should I consult a neurosurgeon?
It is advisable to see a specialist when lower back pain is accompanied by loss of strength, difficulty walking, urinary problems, or progressive neurological symptoms.
A neurosurgical assessment allows us to determine if there is an anchored conus medullaris and if treatment is necessary to prevent further neurological damage.
Diagnosis of tethered cord syndrome
The diagnosis is made using a clinical assessment and imaging testsPrimarily, magnetic resonance imaging of the spine. This test allows observation of the position of the conus medullaris, detection of any abnormal fixation, and assessment of any associated abnormalities.
In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to study the patient's neurological, urinary, or muscular function.
Treatment of tethered conus medullaris
Tethered cord syndrome is usually treated surgically when symptoms are present or there is a risk of neurological progression. The procedure involves releasing the spinal cord to reduce tension and allow it to regain mobility.
El Dr. Tomasz GliniewiczA neurosurgeon in Malaga, he takes a personalized approach to complex spinal cord pathologies, assessing each case individually to relieve symptoms, preserve neurological function and prevent future complications.
Specialist in tethered cord syndrome in Malaga
El Dr. Tomasz Gliniewicz He has extensive experience in treating complex spinal and spinal cord pathologies. His approach is based on accurate diagnosis, careful surgical planning, and the use of advanced neurosurgical techniques.
If you have symptoms consistent with tethered cord syndrome or need a second medical opinion, you can request an assessment with Dr. Tomasz Gliniewicz in Malaga.
Frequently asked questions about tethered cord syndrome
Yes. Some people with tethered cord syndrome may not have symptoms during childhood and begin to develop them in adulthood, especially when stress on the spinal cord and nerves increases.
In some cases, symptoms can progressively worsen over time, leading to greater neurological impairment, difficulty walking, or urinary problems. Therefore, it is important to assess each case individually.
Many patients experience improvement in lower back pain and other neurological symptoms after surgery, especially when diagnosis and treatment are performed before there is advanced nerve damage.
Although the surgery aims to permanently release the spinal cord, in some patients a new fixation may occur over time, so medical follow-up is important.
Tethered cord syndrome is characterized by an abnormal fixation of the spinal cord, while other spinal cord pathologies may be due to tumors, malformations, hernias, or degenerative diseases.
The specialist in charge of the diagnosis and treatment of tethered cord syndrome is the neurosurgeon, especially when there are neurological symptoms or it is necessary to assess surgical treatment.
Your path to an accurate diagnosis in Malaga
Each patient is unique. neurosurgeon in MalagaThe first step is to listen to you and assess your case individually.
