Spinal cord transection for definitive untethering of repetitive tethered cord

Abstract

✓ In certain highly selected circumstances, division of a distally nonfunctional or dysfunctional cord can be a means of definitive untethering that spares and protects more rostral neurological function and results in definitive untethering. The authors reviewed their institutional experience with such cases and evaluated the limited literature. Based on their experience, treatment can be effective in carefully selected patients who undergo spinal cord transection, and the rate of repetitive tethered spinal cord can be decreased. Although uncommon, spinal cord transection appears to be an effective therapy in carefully selected patents with symptoms of repetitive cord tethering.