Author/Authors :
FC, Tamburrelli Department of Orthopaedics - Catholic University of Sacred Heart - Rome, Italy , A, Perna Department of Orthopaedics - Catholic University of Sacred Heart - Rome, Italy , MS, Oliva Department of Orthopaedics - Catholic University of Sacred Heart - Rome, Italy , I, Giannelli Department of Orthopaedics - Catholic University of Sacred Heart - Rome, Italy , M, Genitiempo Department of Orthopaedics - Catholic University of Sacred Heart - Rome, Italy
Abstract :
Disc herniation is one of most common causes of spine surgery. Because of the presence of posterior longitudinal ligaments, disc fragments often migrate into the ventral epidural space. A posterior epidural herniation of a disc fragment is a rare occurrence. We report two cases of posterior migrated disc fragments, with, radiological and clinical findings. Because of the rarity of a posterior
migration of the intervertebral disc fragments, a differential
diagnosis can be challenging. This painful syndrome
associated with neurological lower limb deficits can be
confused initially, with other posterior epidural spaceoccupying lesions such as tumours, abscess or hematomas. A
gadolinium-enhanced MRI scan is the gold standard for a
correct diagnosis. Early surgical decompression of the spine
with a posterior approach remains the optimal technique in ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.
Keywords :
intervertebral disc , posterior herniation , epidural space , epidural neoplasia