A Late Neurologic Complication of Scoliosis Surgery in Connection with Syringomyelia

Abstract

A case of scoliosis in connection with syringomyelia is described. Theories are proposed to explain the progression of the neurological symptoms after surgical correction and fusion of the deformity. Special points are emphasized that will aid in the recognition of syringomyelia in scoliosis patients.

i) Abnormal neurology, in particular a dissociated disturbance of pain and temperature in the upper extremity.

ii) Abnormal localization of a scoliosis curve.

iii) Rapid progression of the scoliosis.

iv) Bony anomalies of the upper cervical spine.

v) Increased diameter of the cervical spinal canal.

Key words:

• complications
• scoliosis
• surgery
• syringomyelia