Intradural migration of sequestrated disc fragment during decompression of cauda equina

Abstract

We report the case of a man who underwent urgent surgery to relieve compression of the cauda equina caused by a large L4/5 disc protrusion. A post-operative but not pre-operative MRI scan showed appearances suggestive of intradural migration of a disc fragment, confirmed at re-operation. We believe that this event happened during the first operation and not before it.

Key words:

• Intradural
• disc herniation
• cauda equina syndrome
• MRI