Carolin Albrecht, Tobias Boeckh-Behrens, Julian Schwarting, Maria Wostrack, Bernhard Meyer, Ann-Kathrin Joerger
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Purpose: Spontaneous spinal hematoma (SSH), a rare neurological disorder, demands immediate diagnostic evaluation and intervention to prevent lasting deficits. This case series analyzes instances, particularly highlighting cases where vascular causes were identified despite inconclusive initial imaging.
Methods: In a retrospective study of 20 patients treated for SSH at a Level I spine center from 01/01/2017 to 11/15/2023, we examined demographics, clinical presentation, imaging, and treatment details. Excluding traumatic cases, we present 4 instances of SSH associated with diverse vascular pathologies.
Results: Patient ages ranged from 39 to 85 years, with a median age of 66 years. 45% were male, and 55% were female. Among 20 cases, 14 were epidural hematomas, 4 subdural, 1 combined epidural and subdural, and 1 subarachnoid hemorrhage. 85% presented with neurological deficits, while 3 solely had pain-related symptoms. 55% were under anticoagulant medication, and vascular anomalies were found in 25% of cases. The cause of SSH remained unclear in 20% of cases. MRI was performed for all patients, and DSA was conducted in 25% of cases. The 4 highlighted cases involved individuals with distinct vascular pathologies managed surgically.
Conclusion: Urgent attention is crucial for SSH due to possible lasting neurological consequences. The study emphasizes comprehensive diagnostics and surgical exploration, especially in cases with unclear etiology, to identify and address vascular causes, preventing hematoma progression or recurrence. Despite their rarity, vascular malformations contributing to spinal hematomas warrant particular attention.
期刊介绍:
The journal "Acta Neurochirurgica" publishes only original papers useful both to research and clinical work. Papers should deal with clinical neurosurgery - diagnosis and diagnostic techniques, operative surgery and results, postoperative treatment - or with research work in neuroscience if the underlying questions or the results are of neurosurgical interest. Reports on congresses are given in brief accounts. As official organ of the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies the journal publishes all announcements of the E.A.N.S. and reports on the activities of its member societies. Only contributions written in English will be accepted.