Syringomyelia and Syringobulbia: Pathophysiology, Surgical Treatment and Nursing Implications

Painless burn injury caused by post-traumatic syringomyelia

“…Post-traumatic syringomyelia (PTS) is a relatively rare condition, but its complications can be serious [4]. The incidence of posttraumatic syringomyelia is reported by various authors as being 0.9-3% of the cases [2,3]. In clinical settings, neurological signs and symptoms have been observed months or even years after the trauma [5].…”

“…Depending on the location of the syrinx and whether or not it is communicating or noncommunicating, a shunt may be inserted or a myelotomy may be performed by placing a small incision in the dorsal cord and drain the fluid [2]. Cavity fluid flow measurement is a method for direct serial monitoring of patients with syringomyelia.…”

“…Associated with congenital malformations as well as trauma and tumors, a syringomyelia can cause a variety of sensory complaints, including paresthesia, changes in temperature recognition, and pain [1,2].…”

Syringomyelia: An Expanding Problem

“…The etiology of syringomyelia is yet unclear. The most widely accepted theory is the hydrodynamic theory proposed by Gardner (Robinson, & Bisnaire, 1990). This theory proposes that during embryonic development, there is cystic dilation of the spinal cord, resulting in overdistention of the neural tube.…”

“…The procedure of choice is surgical decompression. Depending on where the syrinx is and whether or not it is communicating or noncommunicating, a shunt may be inserted or a myelotomy may be performed by placing a small incision in the dorsal cord and draining the fluid (Robinson, & Bisnaire, 1990). Recovery of lost function is not an expectation; however, surgery is performed to prevent further deterioration.…”