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Syringomyelocele and Myelocele

Syringomyelocele

In this condition the central canal of the spinal cord is dilated and the spinal cord lies within the sac together with the peripheral nerves arising from the cord.

This is the rarest variety of spina bifida.

Gross neurological deficits and paralytic manifestations are present.

Myelocele

This is the gravest form of spina bifida, in which besides the bony defect there is also defect of development of the spinal cord. The development is arrested before the time of closure of the neural furrow. So that the posterior part of the spinal cord is not developed.

The elliptical raw surface of the neural furrow can be seen, deep to which lies the anterior part of the spinal cord. At the top end of the defect the central canal of the spinal cord opens on the surface and discharges the cerebrospinal fluid constantly.

Majority of the cases are still born. Even if a few born alive, they die within a few days from infection of the cord and meninges.

Tags: central canal, cerebrospinal fluid, elliptical raw surface, myelocele, neural furrow, peripheral nerves, spina bifida, spinal cord, syringomyelocele

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