Understanding Tethered Cord Surgery : A life changing impact

The human spine plays a huge role in everyday movement, sensation, and overall neurological functions. Tethered cord syndrome is a condition in which the spinal cord gets attached to the tissues surrounding it. This condition might lead to limitation of the movement of the joint. This condition can be congenital or it might develop later in life.

How is tethered cord syndrome caused ?

• Congenital abnormalities
• Scarred tissue after a spinal surgery
• Tumors or cysts near the spinal cord
• Spinal injury

Warnings signs of tethered cord syndrome : 

• Problem walking normally
• Weakness in the legs
• Bowel problems
• Foot deformities
• Scoliosis
• Chronic lower back pain
• Numbness in the legs
• Leaking urine by accident

Tethered cord surgery : 

Tethered cord surgery is a surgical procedure which aims at detaching the tethered spinal cord and protecting it from any prior damage. The surgery is performed by a neurosurgeon. The surgery involves various procedures for a smooth surgical intervention.

• The patient is firstly out under the influence of general anesthesia.
• An incision is made for an easy access to the back
• Then the surgeon proceeds to perform a laminectomy ; a procedure to remove a small part of the vertebrae for a clear vision or access to the spinal cord.
• Then the surgeon proceeds to perform the surgery and finishes it by sealing it with stitches.

Complications associated with tethered cord surgery : 

After the successful surgery, it is yet very essential to look out for any complications associated with it. Look out for any of the signs and consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible, the signs are as below : 

• Infection
• Cerebrospinal fluid leakage
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Re-tethering of the spinal cord

Tethered cord surgery is one of the most innovative and successful surgeries to treat tethered cord syndrome. The surgery can be performed by a neurosurgeon and for an effective treatment, consult a neurosurgeon as soon as possible. Early detection can save lives.