Pediatric Traumatic Pneumorrhachis: Case Report

Abstract

The existence of air in the spinal canal is referred to as pneumorrhachis. It is classified as extradural (epidural) or intradural (subdural or subarachnoid) according to the location where it is found. Nontraumatic, traumatic, and iatrogenic causes have been attributed to its occurrence. Traumatic pneumorrhachis is very rare and rarely seen in children. In our article, a 16-year-old male child in which air formation within the spinal canal was detected after an injury by a penetrating and cutting (knife) tool is discussed. Observing air within the spinal canal due to traumatic causes is an important situation rarely seen in the pediatric age group. In general, this situation, which can be seen after multiple trauma, may be encountered following a minor trauma. The correct assessment of the radiologic imaging methods ensures not to miss the manifestation of the disease.