Syrinx of the spinal cord is treated by our doctors

Syrinx of the Spinal Cord: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Syrinx of the spinal cord, known as syringomyelia, is a rare nerve condition. Moreover, it features a fluid-filled cyst forming inside the spinal cord. Additionally, this cyst may damage nearby nerve tissue over time. Furthermore, a child might develop it silently or show worsening symptoms. Consequently, it affects motor skills, sensation, or posture in some cases. However, it often links to spinal flaws or genetic syndromes in children. Therefore, its impact ranges from mild discomfort to severe nerve issues. Subsequently, parents need to grasp details, causes, signs, diagnosis, and treatments. Finally, Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists offer top support.

Syrinx of the spinal cord Description

Initially, a child with a syrinx may seem normal at birth. Moreover, the condition often hides until symptoms appear, usually ages of 5-20. Additionally, a fluid-filled cavity forms within the spinal cord’s center. Next, this cavity grows, disrupting nerve pathways gradually. Then, it causes visible changes like scoliosis or uneven shoulders. Furthermore, the syrinx’s size and spot decide its effects. Hence, some cases stay symptom-free, found by chance. Conversely, others lead to significant nerve problems. Lastly, it affects about 8.4 per 100,000 children, especially with Chiari malformation.

Syrinx of the Spinal Cord Causes

Firstly, Chiari malformation Type I often triggers a syrinx in kids. Moreover, it occurs when the cerebellum extends into the spinal canal. Additionally, this blocks cerebrospinal fluid flow, forming the cyst. Next, spinal cord trauma or tethered cord syndrome also causes it. Then, spinal tumors or arachnoiditis contribute to its development. Furthermore, genetic factors, like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, may increase risk. However, some cases arise idiopathically without a clear cause. Finally, congenital spinal defects often underlie it, complicating early detection.

Syrinx of the Spinal Cord Symptoms

Initially, syrinx symptoms in a child develop slowly or suddenly. Moreover, common signs include chronic neck or limb pain. Additionally, this pain feels burning or shooting in nature. Next, muscle weakness or atrophy affects the arms or hands. Then, sensory loss, like numbness, may lead to unnoticed burns. Furthermore, scoliosis or spinal deformities often appear. Also, headaches occur, especially with Chiari malformation. Consequently, severe cases bring bladder issues or coordination loss. Finally, these signs prompt urgent care from worried parents.

Syrinx of the Spinal Cord Diagnosis

Firstly, diagnosis requires a pediatric neurosurgeon’s detailed check. Moreover, the doctor reviews the child’s health history and milestones. Additionally, they examine reflexes, strength, sensation, and spine alignment. Next, imaging plays a key role in the process. Then, an MRI of the spine and brain shows the syrinx’s details. Furthermore, it detects Chiari malformation or tethered cord. Also, X-rays assess scoliosis if present. Consequently, a CT scan evaluates bones for possible surgery. Finally, this approach ensures the doctor will have a clear understanding of the condition.

Syrinx of the Spinal Cord Non-Surgical Treatment

Initially, non-surgical care starts for mild or symptom-free cases. Moreover, regular MRI scans every 6-12 months track progression. Additionally, physical therapy strengthens muscles and posture. Next, pain relief comes from medications like gabapentin. Then, a soft cervical collar eases pressure if Chiari is involved. Furthermore, lifestyle changes include avoiding strenuous activities. Also, this strategy works for 30-40% of stable cases. Consequently, it delays the need for invasive procedures. Finally, specialists guide this conservative plan.

Syrinx of the Spinal Cord Surgical Treatment

Firstly, surgery treats symptomatic or growing syringomyelia. Moreover, it relieves pressure and stops progression. Additionally, decompression surgery fixes Chiari malformation. Next, it removes part of the skull and cervical vertebrae. Then, duraplasty widens the dura to restore fluid flow. Furthermore, a shunt drains fluid to the abdomen if needed. Also, direct fenestration collapses the cyst. Consequently, these procedures last 2-4 hours under anesthesia. Finally, choices fit the child’s growth and syrinx traits.

Care After Surgery

Initially, post-surgical care protects the operation site. Moreover, a cervical collar stabilizes the neck for 2-6 weeks. Additionally, pain uses prescribed drugs like ibuprofen. Next, parents keep the incision clean and dry. Then, they watch for infection signs like fever. Furthermore, follow-ups occur at 1, 3, and 6 months. Also, activity limits, like no sports, last 3-6 months. Consequently, close team contact addresses complications. Finally, this ensures smooth recovery monitoring.

Rehabilitation

Initially, rehabilitation starts after initial healing with a therapist. Moreover, early exercises at 6-8 weeks focus on mobility. Additionally, chin tucks restore neck and spine motion. Next, strength training begins at 8-12 weeks. Then, it targets core and back muscles for posture. Furthermore, balance exercises fix nerve deficits. Also, normal activities return over 4-6 months. Consequently, tailored rehab reduces long-term issues. Finally, it supports full neurological recovery.

Why Parents Should Choose Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists

Firstly, parents should trust Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists for their child’s syrinx care due to our team’s exceptional expertise in pediatric spinal and neurological conditions. The Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists doctors only treat children, and our team specializes in pediatric spinal issues. Furthermore, we offer a compassionate, child-friendly environment with state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring accessibility and comfort. Consequently, our team provides comprehensive, tailored support, and we lead with a proven record of success in spinal treatments.

Our doctors at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists are located in five convenient locations: Dallas, Arlington, Flower Mound, Frisco, and McKinney, TX, for families in the Dallas and Fort Worth metroplex area. Selecting a pediatric orthopedic doctor for your child is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration.

Our board-certified orthopedic specialists, doctors Shyam Kishan, Richard Hostin, and Kathryn Wiesman, have spent years studying children’s health and have devoted their lives to treating them. Our multidisciplinary team offers comprehensive care for children and adolescents. Choosing us means partnering with a leader dedicated to your child’s long-term health, delivering personalized support and a proven track record of successful spinal treatments.

Conclusion

Initially, a syrinx in a child is a complex condition. Moreover, early diagnosis and specialized care prevent worsening. Additionally, non-surgical or surgical options improve outcomes. Next, diligent care and rehab enhance recovery. Then, addressing scoliosis and support boosts well-being. Furthermore, Medical City Children’s offers premier care. Also, our team commits to the child’s long-term health. Consequently, parents find expert guidance here. Finally, we strive for the highest treatment standards.

Citation: PM&R Knowledge – pediatric-syringomyelia

The medical content on this page has been carefully reviewed and approved for accuracy by the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute’s qualified healthcare professionals, including our board-certified physicians and Physician Assistants. Our team ensures that all information reflects the latest evidence-based practices and meets rigorous standards of medical accuracy, with oversight from our expert spine doctors to guarantee reliability for our patients.

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Syrinx of the Spinal Cord