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Pediatric embryonal tumors have a rare occurrence in the peripheral nervous system. A more aberrant location is the extradural space, with only 25 cases being reported in literature. The seemingly innocuous symptoms can often be misleading as a sprain, and in our country, where tuberculosis is endemic, it can even be perceived as Pott’s spine, and therefore, leads to a delayed intervention for these rapidly progressive malignancies. We report the case of a 9-year-old boy whose symptoms started with a dull neck pain that was ignored for 6 months as a neck sprain. X-ray of his cervical spine showed only subtle loss of cervical lordosis, a finding that was missed. Eventually, he developed weakness of the right upper and lower limbs and was referred to our hospital. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a large lobulated extradural lesion extending from C1-D3 level of neoplastic etiology. Postlaminectomy, the histopathology was consistent with primitive embryonal tumor. The patient was immediately started on an intensive chemotherapy regimen and is currently in the consolidation phase.

Aims and background: Symptomatic ligamentum flavum cysts in the cervical spine are an uncommon entity and can potentially cause neural compression, leading to radiculopathy and myelopathy. In this report, we discuss the clinical presentation, imaging findings, and management of a cervical ligamentum flavum cyst causing myelopathy in a 68-year-old gentleman. Case description: A 68-year-old gentleman presented with progressive paresthesia and weakness of both upper limbs of 6 months duration, along with clumsiness of both hands and difficulty in walking. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the cervical spine showed a ventral midline ligamentum flavum causing cord compression and myelomalacia along with bilateral C3-C4 facet arthritis. The patient underwent a C3-C5 limited laminectomy, undercutting of the superior border of C6 lamina and C3-C6 lateral mass screw-based instrumented fusion with locally harvested autograft. At the 3-month follow-up, the gait, motor power, and sensations in all four limbs had returned to normal. Conclusion: Ligamentum flavum cysts in the subaxial cervical spine are the result of spinal degeneration and have the potential to cause myelopathy. Surgical excision of the cyst and neural decompression with or without fusion is the treatment of choice for symptomatic cysts. Clinical significance: Cervical ligamentum flavum cyst is an uncommon entity and can potentially cause myelopathy and/or radiculopathy. It is imperative to recognize this entity on imaging and correlate it with the symptoms. Surgical excision of the cyst, with or without fusion, is the treatment of choice.

Objectives: Spinal arachnoid cysts (SAC) are rare lesions. There are many uncertainties regarding details about Intradural and Extradural SAC. We present a series of 12 cases of SAC along with a comprehensive review of the literature. In this review, we discussed the differences between Intradural and Extradural SAC pertaining to demography, pathogenesis, surgical procedures and outcomes. Methods: We retrospectively collected the data of 12 patients of SAC treated at our Institute from 2012 to 2023. The age, gender, clinical, radiological, surgical data and outcome were noted. An extensive review of the literature was done to analyse and note the differences between Intradural and extradural SAC and their surgical management. Results: In our series of 12 patients, 7 had Extradural SAC(58.3%), 3 had Intradural SAC(25%) and 2 had Intramedullary SAC(16.7%). . Of the 12 patients, 4 were males and 8 were females (1:2). Age range was 9 to 64 years and the mean age was 34.42 ± 17.71 years. There were four paediatric patients in the series. The most common symptoms reported at presentation are weakness of limbs(81.9%),back pain(36.4%), sensory symptoms(36.4%), radicular pain (18.2%), and bladder disturbances(9.1%). Out of the 12 patients, surgery was done in 11 patients and one patient was managed conservatively. Conclusions: From the review of the literature, intradural SAC was twice as common as extradural SAC. Ventrally located SACs are more common in Intradural locations as compared to Extradural. The intradural SACs were more commonly located in the thoracic and cervical regions when compared to extradural SACs which were located commonly in the thoracolumbar, thoracic and lumbar regions. Extradural SACs were mostly Primary and the mainstay of treatment is complete or partial excision of the cyst with identification and ligation of the communicating pedicle. Selective laminectomy, partial excision of the cyst and wide fenestration to sustain CSF flow is the recommended treatment in Intradural SAC.

Abstract Background Epidural hematomas have been treated with urgent surgical evacuation to prevent catastrophic neurological sequelae and death. Brain Trauma Foundation recommends EDH volume greater than 30 cm3 and warrants surgical evacuation irrespective of GCS. However, due to increase in number of patients undergoing brain CTs following head injuries, more patients have been detected with EDH causing minimal symptoms. Aims and objectives To study factors influencing patients being treated conservatively for head injury with supratentorial epidural hematomas. Material and methods Our study is a retrospective analysis of supratentorial epidural hematoma treated conservatively from august 2018 to July 2020 at Sher-i-Kashmir institute of medical sciences, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Results A total of 19 patients with EDH were treated conservatively and fulfilled the inclusion criteria.(GCS of 13–15 with no neurological deficit, mild signs of elevated ICP, EDH thickness 13 on admission. 8 patients were hospitalised for a week, whilst 2 patients stayed in the hospital for 20 and 25 days, respectively, due to problems not related to EDH. One patient in whom conservative treatment had to be changed to surgical evacuation after 6 days of observation because of worsening headache, impaired alertness repeated imaging showed slight increase in EDH. Conclusions EDH can be managed conservatively in carefully selected patients of minor head injury with radiological surveillance and close neurological monitoring. Patients with GCS on admission more than 13, midline shift of less than 5 mm, location and volume of EDH less than 30 ml. Thus, leading to optimal utilisation of hospital resources. So, we conclude that even a dreaded entity like extradural haemorrhage can be managed conservatively in selected cases with strict clinical and radiological surveillance. We have called them ‘’Benign extradural haemorrhages’’.

Background and Objectives: Many risk factors for postoperative C5 palsy (PC5P) have been reported regarding a “cord shift” after a posterior approach. However, there are few reports about shoulder traction as a possible risk factor of anterior cervical surgery. Therefore, we assessed the stretched nerve roots when shoulder traction was applied on cadavers. Materials and Methods: Eight cadavers were employed in this study, available based on age and the presence of foramen stenosis. After dissecting the sternocleidomastoid muscle of the cadaver, the shoulder joint was pulled with a force of 2, 5, 8, 10, 15, and 20 kg. Then, the stretched length of the fifth nerve root was measured in the extra-foraminal zone. In addition, the same measurement was performed after cutting the carotid artery to accurately identify the nerve root’s origin. After an additional dissection was performed so that the superior trunk of the brachial plexus could be seen, the stretched length of the fifth and sixth nerve roots was measured again. Results: Throughout the entire experiment, the fifth nerve root stretched out for an average of 1.94 mm at 8 kg and an average of 5.03 mm at a maximum force of 20 kg. In three experiments, the elongated lengths of the C5 nerve root at 8 kg and 20 kg were 1.69/4.38 mm, 2.13/5.00 mm, and 0.75/5.31 mm, respectively, and in the third experiment, the elongated length of the C6 nerve root was 1.88/5.44 mm. Conclusions: Although this was a cadaveric experiment, it suggests that shoulder traction could be the risk factors for PC5P after anterior cervical surgery. In addition, for patients with foraminal stenosis and central stenosis, the risk would be higher. Therefore, the surgeon should be aware of this, and the patient would need sufficient explanation.

Abstract A 7‐year‐old neutered male Domestic shorthair cat, with a 1.5‐year history of left eye enucleation secondary to a diffuse iris malignant melanoma, was evaluated for progressive onset of pelvic limb paresis and ataxia with severe thoracolumbar hyperaesthesia and dysorexia. Neurological examination localised a lesion to the T3–L3 spinal cord segments. Magnetic resonance imaging of the thoracolumbar spine showed a well‐defined extradural T1‐weighted hyperintense non‐contrast‐enhancing mass, initially suggesting a potential haemorrhagic component. Exploratory surgery revealed a brownish extradural lumbar mass. Histologic examination concluded to a melanoma, most probably metastatic given the animal's previous medical history. This report highlights the importance of collecting a complete medical history, which can help in obtaining a preliminary differential diagnosis in cats with clinical signs of myelopathy. Although the location of this metastasis is particularly unusual both in human and veterinary medicine, making optimal treatment challenging for neurosurgeon, our increased understanding of immune and tumour cell biology during the past decade is likely to improve the future treatments of feline melanoma and its metastases.

The clinical manifestations of neurofibromatosis type-1 have in common the presence of neurofibromas, schwannomas and cafe`-au-lait macules, which can potentially appear within any organ system of the body, involving primarily the skeleton, skin and soft tissues. The spinal thoracic tuberculoma in neurofibromatosis is exceptional. We report here, the case of a 31-year-old male with neurofibromatosis type-1 who presented a year agoa spinal thoracic pain. The evolution was marked by the appearance of a dorsal para-vertebral mass, progressively increasing in volume for 03 months. Neurological Examination revealed normal muscle bulk and tone, and power was grade 5/5. Deep tendon reflexes were brisk and the Babinski sign was present. The sensory deficit was present below the D9 level. The remainder of the examination found a voluminous dorsal para vertebral mass ovoid, renitent, and adhering to the superficial and the deep planes. There were also "café-au-lait" spots disseminated on his body. The imagery showed a formation with respect to D11-D12, isointense on T1 and T2, heterogeneously enhanced after contrast with central necrosis, with a foraminal starting point measuring 85x78x66 mm, with external canal extension. Laminectomy D11-D12 was performed with incomplete excision of the lesion. The histological examination showed casein-follicular vertebral tuberculosis, with secondary abdominal changes. Then the patient was put on anti-bacillary drugs. The evolution was marked two weeks later by the reappearance of the back pain and the back mass. On the 42nd day of treatment, the patient had a febrile consciousness disorder with a GCS of 8, right mydriasis and meningeal stiffness. Paraclinic investigations revealed tuberculosis meningoencephalitis, responsible for an active ventricular hydrocephalus associated with a left temporoparietal extrudal hematoma. An external ventricular shunt was performed as well as a left temporo-parietal extrudal hematoma evacuation. The patient died 7 days later in a poly visceral failure chart.

We present the first case of clival cystic chordoma with extradural location, transdural transgression, and moderate bone involvement in a 10-year-old girl. Chordoma showed unconventional appearances on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), due to cystic components, extradural space location with extensive intradural extension, moderate superficial bone involvement. Surgery confirmed the extradural location and histopathological examination revealed cystic chordoma. MRI and CT findings were not characteristic for a single lesion; differential diagnoses included cystic lesions such as epidermoid and dermoid cyst, ecchordosis physaliphora, and benign notochordal cell tumors.

BackgroundMeningiomas are mostly benign and slow-growing neoplasms of the central nervous system. Spinal meningiomas account for up to 45% of all intradural spinal tumors in adults and up to 25%–45% of all spinal tumors. Spinal extradural meningiomas are rare and may be easily confused with malignant neoplasms.Case descriptionA 24-year-old woman was presented to our hospital with paraplegia and loss of sensation in the T7 dermatome and lower body. MRI findings showed T6-T7 right-sided intradural extramedullary and extradural lesion, measuring 1.4 cm × 1.5 cm × 3 cm, extending to the right foramen, compressing the spinal cord, and displacing it to the left. Hyperintense lesion on T2 and hypointense lesion on T1 were observed. The patient reported improvement after surgery and during follow-up. We recommend maximizing the decompression during surgery to achieve better clinical outcome. Extradural meningiomas represent 5% of all meningiomas; therefore, having an intradural on top of extradural meningioma with extraforaminal extensions makes this a unique and rare case.ConclusionMeningiomas can be easily missed in diagnosis depending on imaging and the pathognomonic pattern it represents, which can mimic other pathologies, such as schwannomas. Therefore, surgeons should always suspect their patient having a meningioma even if the pattern is not typical. Moreover, preoperative preparation, such as navigation and defect closure, must be taken in case it turns out be a meningioma instead of the presumed pathology.

Purpose To study the demography, incidence, symptoms, histopathology, postoperative complications and recovery in operated patients of spinal tumor. Overview of Literature Primary spinal cord tumors (SCT) are an uncommon entity. According to their location, spinal tumors are conveniently classified as extradural (ED) and intradural (ID), although some can be both inside and outside the dura. ID tumors can be intradural extramedullary (IDEM) or intramedullary SCT (IMSCT). Methods This is a retrospective study of 122 patients with spinal tumors who were surgically treated at the department of neurosurgery from 2014 to 2019 over a period of 5 years. Study Design This is a retrospective study. Results Out of 122 patients, there were 19 patients with ED tumor, 73 had IDEM, and 30 had IMSCT. As many as 73 patients were males and the rest of the 49 patients were females. Mean age at time of surgery was 40.79 years. The thoracic region of spinal canal was most frequently involved (64; 52.4%). The common clinical symptom was motor weakness (90 cases; 73.77%). Majority of the patients had symptoms for duration of 6 to 12 months. Schwannomas were the most common tumor among IDEM and extradural location. Ependymomas were the most common type in IMSCT. We observed significant improvement in most of our cases. Four patients deteriorated at 3 months follow- up. Conclusions There was a higher male:female ratio for all spinal cord tumors except meningiomas. There was also a higher proportion of nerve sheath tumors, and a lower proportion of meningiomas and neuroepithelial tumors. These results are similar to other studies from Asian countries.

Spinal angiolipomas (SALs) are very rare benign extradural neoplasms, representing 0.14%–1.2% of all spinal tumors. Andersson lesion is a localized vertebral or disco-vertebral lesion in ankylosing spondylitis. Co-occurrence of these lesions is very rare and has never been reported. We are reporting one such case of a 61-year-old man presented with features of dorsal compressive myelopathy. On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), he was diagnosed to have a SAL at D6–D9 and Andersson lesion at D7–D8 and L1–L2. He was managed surgically with a long-segment fixation and decompression and gross total excision of the tumor. Diagnosis of a SAL was confirmed in a biopsy, and postoperatively, he showed good clinical improvement. In conclusion, given the rarity of co-occurrence of these pathologies, a strong clinical suspicion is required. MRI and CT scan help in diagnosis. Both these pathologies warrant surgical management. When diagnosed early and managed appropriately, they have a good prognosis.

Abstract Spontaneous extradural hematoma in Sickle cell disease is rare neurological complication with few cases reported in the English literature. We report a case of a 16‐year‐old male patient who was previously diagnosed with Sickle Cell Beta Thalassemia and presented with severe headache and vomiting for 3 days. An emergency CT scan of the head demonstrated right‐sided acute parietal extradural hematoma with mass effect. Patient underwent emergent craniotomy with evacuation of the hematoma. Patient recovered completely. Although calvarial infarction has been associated with extradural hematoma, an absence of it makes our case distinct. A high index of suspicion should be made in SCD patients for possibility of EDH in progressive headache.

Congenital epidermoid cysts are slow-growing, mass lesions caused by the abnormal inclusion of neuroectodermal tissue within the developing central nervous system. Subtotal excision of epidermoid cysts increases the risk of early recurrence of clinical signs. A 4-year-old female spayed boxer was presented with a 4-month history of ambulatory paraparesis and proprioceptive ataxia. Neurological examination localized a T3-L3 myelopathy. MRI revealed a T1 iso- to hypointense, T2 and FLAIR hyperintense, rim-enhancing mass at the level of the T9-T10 vertebrae resulting in extradural compression of the spinal cord. This was histopathologically confirmed as an extradural epidermoid cyst following subtotal excision. MRI performed 2 months post-operatively revealed a significant decrease of the lesion volume. The dog was neurologically normal following the surgery however re-presented 28 months later with recurrence of clinical signs. A 28-month post-operative MRI revealed substantial enlargement of the epidermoid cyst. The dog was subsequently taken for repeat decompressive surgery. At 6 months from the repeat surgery, the dog was neurologically static with mild proprioceptive deficits. The case report highlights the clinical and MRI features of a recurrent extradural spinal epidermoid cyst treated by subtotal excision.

Introdução: Os meningiomas são considerados a neoplasia intracraniana benigna mais comum encontrada na prática clínica. Os meningiomas intradiploicos são um subtipo raro de meningiomas extradurais primários (MEP) e que se podem manifestar com lesões osteolíticas, osteoblásticas ou mistas. As lesões agressivas tendem a envolver os tecidos moles e são de natureza osteolítica. O caso apresentado permite rever a sua abordagem diagnóstica e realçar a importância da relação médico-doente perante um doente que se apresenta com uma patologia incomum. Descrição do caso: Mulher, 58 anos, caucasiana, antecedentes pessoais irrelevantes, recorreu à consulta aberta referindo sensação de «cabeça oca» e dor num ponto do couro cabeludo com dois meses de evolução. Negava outras queixas do foro neurológico ou história de traumatismos. No exame objetivo destacava-se, à palpação, uma área com cerca de 1cm mole e dolorosa, localizada na região parieto-occipital direita, sem lesões externas aparentes. O exame neurológico não apresentava alterações. Na radiografia do crânio observou-se uma imagem hipertransparente, na vertente para-mediana direita da região occipital. Para estudo da lesão realizou-se TC-CE que demonstrou lesão lítica, associada a erosões completas de ambas as tábuas do crânio, com pequeno componente de partes moles epidural. A doente foi encaminhada para os cuidados de saúde secundários onde foi realizada RM-CE, sendo confirmada a presença da lesão na topografia mencionada. A doente foi submetida a craniotomia para exérese do tumor e cranioplastia, tendo o pós-operatório decorrido sem complicações. Comentário: Estas lesões são usualmente assintomáticas, podendo causar sintomas neurológicos dependendo da sua localização, tipo de crescimento e agressividade local. O tempo médio até ao diagnóstico varia entre um dia e 40 anos. Este caso realça a importância do médico de família no diagnóstico precoce de patologias pouco frequentes, que se podem apresentar com sintomatologia inespecífica e que podem comprometer a qualidade de vida dos doentes.

Primary spinal hydatid cyst is a rare and uncommon entity but a significant manifestation of hydatid disease. Here, we report a case of primary extramural hydatid cyst of the sacral region causing cord compression. Pre-operative differential diagnosis was that of Tarlov cyst owing to the radiological appearance and location of the cyst. The diagnosis of hydatid cyst was established intra-operatively which was later confirmed by histopathology report. Hydatidcyst may not fall under differential diagnosis of extramural lesions of the spine due to its rarity but should be kept under high suspicion in endemic countries.

Introduction and Study Design: Spinal arachnoid cyst is an uncommon entity, presenting with radiculopathy or paraparesis. These cysts are usually found in intradural extramedullary region; and the extradural region is a rare location. The exact pathogenesis in the existence of these cysts in the extradural region is still debated. In this article, we have retrospectively analyzed the clinical profile of the rare extradural arachnoid cyst (EDAC). Methodology: In this study, 19 patients of EDAC operated at our institute between January 2006 to June 2016 are analyzed. All patients with the Oswestry disability index score of >20 were managed surgically (open laminectomy and cyst excision). The clinical outcome was assessed at using 5-point satisfaction scale and McCormick grading. Results: All 13 operated patients had EDACs with communication with the intradural compartment. In 11 (84.6%) patients, cyst wall was excised completely, in 2 (15.3%) patients underwent partial excision of cyst wall; dural communication was closed in all patients (n = 13). None of the patients had clinical deterioration or radiological recurrence till the last follow-up. Mean follow-up was 52.2 months (range 1–160); all patients were satisfied after surgery (median score was 3). Discussion: Symptomatic EDACs account

A 7-year-old castrated male Labrador retriever was referred for evaluation of progressive hind limb paresis of 4 weeks’ duration. On computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging examination, masses were found in several regions including the lung, right kidney, and peritoneum. Additionally, an extradural mass at the region of T13–L1 was identified, which is assumed to related to the chief complaint, progressive hind limb paresis. With the consent of the owner, a dorsal laminectomy was performed to remove the mass and surrounding tissues for the palliation of the hind limb paresis. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical examination revealed the mass to be consistent with an undifferentiated (high-grade) pleomorphic sarcoma. The patient presented with recurrence of the hind limb paresis, respiratory discomfort, and urinary incontinence. The owner declined treatment and the dog was euthanized. Systemic metastasis was confirmed on postmortem microscopic examination. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report describing multiple undifferentiated high-grade pleomorphic sarcoma with extradural involvement developing into the vertebral canal through the intervertebral space, resulting in spinal damage, in a dog.

Extradural hematoma as a result of traumatic injury is a serious neurological emergency that required immediate intervention. The standard protocol is to identify the condition at earliest and provide quick surgical evacuation of the hematoma. The situation tends to be fatally deteriorating and marks a high mortality rate and worse health outcomes. We have presented a case of extradural hematoma in this study where the surgery had a delay due to the unavailability of general anesthesia. However, the falling Glasgow Coma Scale scores encouraged the surgeons to induce the surgical procedure with the employment of local anesthesia. The intervention turned out to be successful and produced the possibility of using local anesthesia as an alternative in case of critical emergency situations in order to save a life.

Myxopapillary ependymomas are a slow-growing, grade I type glial tumor in the lumbosacral region. More rarely, they can present as extradural, subcutaneous sacrococcygeal, or perisacral masses, and it is under these circumstances that they are more likely to spread. Here, we report the presentation of a sacrococcygeal mass in patient that was initially resected confirming extradural myxopapillary ependymoma. At initial resection, multiple small pulmonary nodules were detected. This mass recurred 2 years later at the resection site with an interval increase in the previously imaged pulmonary nodules. Resection of both the post-sacral mass and largest lung metastasis confirmed recurrent myxopapillary ependymoma with oligometastatic spread. Because these tumors are rare, with extradural presentation being even more infrequent, to this date there are no definitive therapeutic guidelines for initial treatment and continued surveillance. For myxopapillary ependymoma, current standard of care is first-line maximal surgical resection with or without postoperative radiotherapy depending on the extent of disease and extent of resection. However, there remains insufficient evidence on the role of radiotherapy to oligometastatic foci in providing any further survival benefit or extending time to recurrence. Thus, prospective studies assessing the role of upfront treatment of oligometastases with local resection and adjuvant radiotherapy are needed for improved understanding of extradural myxopapillary ependymoma.

Une patiente de 68 ans qui consulte pour des céphalées et des troubles de la marche depuis 6 mois, avec un syndrome cérébelleux et des troubles de l'équilibre. Une tomodensitométrie cérébrale a montré une volumineuse lésion extra-durale médiane de la Fosse Cérébrale Postérieure (FCP) avec des calcifications, une érosion de l'os occipital et une prise de contraste périphérique. Une IRM de caractérisation a montré un processus lésionnel extradural médian de la FCP en hypo signal T1 (A), hyper signal T2 (B), hétérogène en Flair (C), avec rehaussement périphérique modéré (D), et hyper signal diffusion. Un traitement chirurgical a permis l'exérèse complète de la tumeur et l'examen histologique a confirmé le diagnostic de kyste épidermoïde. Les kystes épidermoïdes de la FCP sont rares, c'est des tumeurs congénitales à croissance lente mais peuvent se révéler à tout âge, sans prédominance de sexe. Les localisations intra-durales, au niveau de l'angle ponto-cérébelleux et para-sellaire, sont les plus habituelles. La tomodensitométrie montre un processus tumoral bien limité sans prise de contraste, c'est l'IRM qui permet une meilleure caractérisation de la lésion comme dans notre cas. Le diagnostic différentiel se fait avec les kystes arachnoïdiens et les kystes dermoïdes. Le traitement des kystes épidermoïdes est chirurgical avec ablation complète de la tumeur et de la capsule.

Primary spinal primitive neuroectodermal tumor (psPNET) is a rare entity with few cases reported in literature. We report a case of a 50-year-old female who presented to us with paraplegia and was diagnosed with extradural dorsal spine psPNET. The diagnosis was not suspected at presentation or on radiology but was established on histopathological examination. It is important to distinguish it from central nervous system primitive neuroectodermal tumors and from other spinal tumors since it follows a different clinical course and therapeutic outcome.

Spinal meningiomas are mostly intradural in location although at times these are associated with some extradural extensions. Purely extradural spinal meningiomas (EDSMs) are however, extremely rare and when present, may cause diagnostic dilemma preoperatively. Only seven cases of pure EDSM have been reported till date. In this paper, we describe two cases of EDSM affecting the cervical spine and present their clinical profiles, radiological findings, operative management, and follow-up data, along with a review of the literature.

Spinal nerve root hemangioblastomas present mostly as intradural-extradurally. Purely extradural spinal nerve root hemangioblastoma is a very rare entity. In this study, we aimed to analyze epidemiological perspectives of purely extradural spinal nerve root hemangioblastomas presented in English medical literature in addition to our own exemplary case. PubMed/MEDLINE was searched using the terms “hemangioblastoma,” “extradural,” “spinal,” and “nerve root.” Demographical variables of age, gender, concomitant presence of von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) disease; spinal imaging and/or intraoperative findings for tumor location were surveyed from retrieved articles. There are 38 patients with purely extradural spinal nerve root hemangioblastoma. The median age is 45 years (range = 24–72 years). Female:male ratio is 0.6. Spinal levels for purely extradural spinal nerve root hemangioblastomas, in order of decreasing frequency, are thoracic (48.6%), cervical (13.5%), lumbar (13.5%), lumbosacral (10.8%), sacral (8.1%), and thoracolumbar (5.4%). Concomitant presence of VHL disease is 45%. Purely extradural spinal nerve root hemangioblastomas are very rare and can be confused with other more common extradural spinal cord tumors. Concomitant presence of VHL disease is observed in less than half of the patients with purely extradural spinal nerve root hemangioblastomas. Surgery is the first-line treatment in these tumors.

Intraspinal extradural primitive neuroectodermal tumours (PNET) represent a rare entity that almost always carry a poor prognosis. A recent literature research revealed only four cases reported in adults. The tumours have mainly thoracic and lumbar location. We report the only case with cervical location and with the longest survival. Urgent laminectomy was performed resulting in a rapid pain relief for the patient. The patient was followed up with craniospinal irradiation and several cycles of chemotherapy. The patient died due to dissemination of the disease 31 months after the diagnosis. Intraspinal PNET tumours have a rapidly progressive course, and there is no current consensus on the optimal therapeutic approach.

Purely extradural giant lumbar schwannomas are rare lesions. Classification of these tumors is performed according to the sizes and spills and is named the modified Sridhar's classification. The management of these tumors has traditionally been performed by combined antero-posterior large or two-stage exposures. This combined exposure has many disadvantages. Recent reports have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of removal of these tumors using mini-open micro surgical resection for the schwannomas, but the safety and efficacy have not been established for extremely large giant tumors. We report a case of a giant L4 dumb-bell schwannoma successfully resected through a mini-open micro surgical resection. These neoplasms can be safely and effectively treated with mini-open techniques. Reduction in blood loss, hospitalization, and tissue disruption may be potential benefits of this approach. We discuss the technical details of this surgical approach along with the limitations and possible complications. In addition, this study is included in the current schwannoma (Kotil) classification.

A 28-year-old male presented with neck pain and dysesthesias in the right upper limb. On examination, he had a firm, well-defined midline posterior cervical mass discernible on palpation at the mid-cervical level. He had no neurological deficit. Neuroradiology revealed a variegated enhancing cervical mass is arising from C3 lamina. The mass extended into the right extradural space eroding the C3 lamina and posteriorly into the intermuscular plane. The tumor was excised totally. Histopathology of the tumor showed features of hemangiopericytoma (HPC). The patient underwent postoperative radiotherapy. Primary osseous spinal HPC are rare malignant extra-axial tumors that tend to recur and metastasize. Only two cases of primary osseous HPC have been reported earlier to involve the cervical spine. The clinical presentation and management of the present case with a review of the literature is presented.

Context: The study was to compare the analgesic efficacy of three different epidural solutions - ropivacaine, ropivacaine fentanyl mixture, and ropivacaine buprenorphine mixture - for cesarean section. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, randomized, controlled, double blind study carried out in primi parturients undergoing elective cesarean section with singleton fetus. A total of 102 parturients in the age group of 20-35 years, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I or II scheduled for elective cesarean under continuous epidural anesthesia were divided into three groups using a computer-generated random number list. The test dose (3 ml 2% lignocaine with 15 μg adrenaline) and 0.75% ropivacaine 12 ml were given to all parturients. In addition, normal saline 1 ml, fentanyl 50 μg, and buprenorphine 300 μg were given to Group I, II, and III respectively. Sensory block, motor block, analgesia, maternal effects, fetal outcome, and surgeons′ and parturients′ satisfaction were evaluated. Results: Onset of sensory block was faster in the fentanyl and buprenorphine groups compared to ropivacaine group (9.94 ± 0.48, 10.72 ± 0.26 versus 14.59 ± 0.34). Duration of sensory block was prolonged in buprenorphine group as compared to fentanyl and ropivacaine groups (120.41 ± 4.31) versus (95.68 ± 3.28, 98.28 ± 3.42). Duration of analgesia was prolonged in buprenorphine group compared to fentanyl and ropivacaine groups (516.38 ± 29.14 versus 327.06 ± 12.41, 285.78 ± 10.10). It proved to be safe for mother and fetus. The surgeon and the parturients were satisfied with the mode of anesthesia. Conclusion: Ropivacaine 0.75%, ropivacaine 0.75% with fentanyl 50 mg, or buprenorphine 300 mg provided safe anesthesia when given extradurally for cesarean section. Addition of both fentanyl and buprenorphine to ropivacaine hastened the onset of sensory block, while addition of buprenorphine provided prolonged excellent postoperative analgesia.

Utilizou-se o eletroneuroestimulador como um meio adequado para confirmação do posicionamento da ponta de agulhas isoladas no espaço epidural lombossal, por meio de pequenas estimulações elétricas que provocam contrações dos músculos inervados, empregando-se agulha de cateter intravenoso em vez de agulha isolada para a eletroneuroestimulação. Foram utilizados 40 cães para procedimentos cirúrgicos ortopédicos, abdominais ou retroumbilicais que necessitassem de bloqueio epidural. Durante a introdução gradativa da agulha no canal vertebral lombossacral, estímulos elétricos de 1,5 a 0,5mA foram aplicados. Diante de contrações musculares em membros pélvicos, cauda e/ou ânus, as quais foram consideradas respostas condizentes com o correto posicionamento da agulha no espaço epidural, estimulando raízes da cauda equina, procedeu-se à administração da associação de lidocaína, bupivacaína e tramadol. Constatou-se a adequada anestesia epidural mediante relaxamento do esfíncter anal, ausência dos reflexos patelares e flexor e a analgesia na área cirúrgica abdominal. Conclui-se que o método foi eficaz para a confirmação do correto posicionamento da agulha no espaço epidural durante a realização dessa anestesia regional em cães.The electric neurostimulator was used as an adequate mean for the confirmation of the correct placement of the tip of the insulated needles in the lumbosacral epidural space through small electric stimulations causing muscle contractions by using an intravenous catheter needle instead of an electric neurostimulation insulated needle. Forty dogs were selected based on the need for an epidural block for orthopedic, abdominal or retroumbilical surgical procedures. Electrical stimuli were applied from 1.5 to 0.5mA during a gradual introduction of the needle into the lumbosacral vertebral canal. Responses that were considered as indicative of the correct placement of the needle and stimulation of the cauda equina were muscle contractions in the pelvic limbs, tail or anus. An association of lidocaine, bupivacaine and tramadol was then administered. Adequate epidural anesthesia was confirmed through relaxation of the anal sphincter, absence of patellar and flexor reflexes and analgesia of the abdominal surgical area. The authors were able to conclude that the method used was effective to confirm the correct needle placement in the epidural space during regional anesthesia in dogs.

Utilizou-se o eletroneuroestimulador como um meio adequado para confirmação do posicionamento da ponta de agulhas isoladas no espaço epidural lombossal, por meio de pequenas estimulações elétricas que provocam contrações dos músculos inervados, empregando-se agulha de cateter intravenoso em vez de agulha isolada para a eletroneuroestimulação. Foram utilizados 40 cães para procedimentos cirúrgicos ortopédicos, abdominais ou retroumbilicais que necessitassem de bloqueio epidural. Durante a introdução gradativa da agulha no canal vertebral lombossacral, estímulos elétricos de 1,5 a 0,5mA foram aplicados. Diante de contrações musculares em membros pélvicos, cauda e/ou ânus, as quais foram consideradas respostas condizentes com o correto posicionamento da agulha no espaço epidural, estimulando raízes da cauda equina, procedeu-se à administração da associação de lidocaína, bupivacaína e tramadol. Constatou-se a adequada anestesia epidural mediante relaxamento do esfíncter anal, ausência dos reflexos patelares e flexor e a analgesia na área cirúrgica abdominal. Conclui-se que o método foi eficaz para a confirmação do correto posicionamento da agulha no espaço epidural durante a realização dessa anestesia regional em cães.

Compararam-se os efeitos analgésico, sedativo e neuroendócrino decorrentes da administração epidural e intramuscular da metadona em gatas submetidas à ovariossalpingoisterectomia (OSH). Todos os animais foram tranquilizados com acepromazina, 0,1mg kg-1 IM, seguindo-se a indução e manutenção anestésica com tiopental sódico, 12mg kg-1 IV, e halotano, respectivamente. Após a estabilização anestésica, os animais foram distribuídos em três grupos, com oito animais cada, tratados com metadona pela via epidural (EP) ou intramuscular (IM) 0,2mg kg-1, respectivamente, ou com solução salina (S) 0,2mL kg-1. Foram avaliados: graus de analgesia e de sedação, necessidade de analgesia de resgate, efeitos adversos e concentração sérica de cortisol. Os graus de analgesia e de sedação e o cortisol não diferiram entre os tratamentos. Analgesia de resgate foi administrada quatro, nove e 11 vezes nos tratamentos EP, IM e S, respectivamente. Nos tratamentos IM e S, a suplementação analgésica foi necessária a partir da primeira hora pós-cirúrgica, enquanto no tratamento EP, somente a partir da terceira hora após a OSH. Conclui-se que a administração de metadona pela via epidural resulta em menor quantidade do analgésico pós-operatório, e que a analgesia é mais prolongada quando comparada à obtida pela via intramuscular, em gatas submetidas à OSH.

Introduction: Brain infections of dental origin are rare, but well-known and accurately described. There are two different brain infections: brain abscess, the most frequent, and extradural or subdural empyema. Here, we discuss the case of an extradural empyema. Observation: A 28-year-old man with a very poor dental condition showed neurological and eye infection signs. A brain and face CT scan revealed extradural empyema, orbit abscess and pansinusitis. These infections had all dental origin: an apical lesion of tooth 26. Discussion: Such severe cases must be surgically and medically treated with a strong antibiotic therapy. A systematic investigation and the treatment of dental infected areas are both necessary.

Analgesia satisfatória tem sido relatada com a administração peridural de agonistas adrenérgicos em associação aos anestésicos locais. Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, avaliar o efeito analgésico e cardiorrespiratório da lidocaína isolada ou associada à clonidina via peridural lombossacra em cães. Seis cães foram submetidos a dois tratamentos, com intervalo mínimo de 15 dias entre cada avaliação. No tratamento L, foi empregada lidocaína 2% com vasoconstrictor (5mg kg-1) e, no tratamento C, a clonidina (10µg kg-1) foi associada à lidocaína, de modo a perfazer um volume final de 0,25ml kg-1. Os animais foram tranquilizados com acepromazina (0,05mg kg-1 IV) e mantidos sob anestesia com isofluorano em máscara facial durante a punção do espaço peridural. Foram mensuradas: frequência cardíaca (FC), parâmetros eletrocardiográficos (ECG), frequência respiratória (f), pressão arterial sistólica (PAS), gases sanguíneos, temperatura retal (T), duração e extensão do bloqueio anestésico. A estatística foi realizada com análise de variância, teste de Tukey e teste t pareado (PSatisfactory analgesia has been related with epidural 2 adrenoceptor agonists in combination with local anesthetics. The aim of this study was to compare the analgesic and cardiopulmonary effects of lidocaine or lidocaine-clonidine epidural injections in healthy dogs. Dogs were randomly assigned to two groups of six animals each. The L group received lidocaine (5mg kg-1 L) and the C group lidocaine plus clonidine (10µg kg-1 C). Preanaesthetic medication was carried out with acepromazine (0.05mg kg-1 IV). Anaesthesia was induced and maintained with isoflurane by facial mask for epidural injection. Heart rate (HH), electrocardiography (ECG), respiratory rate (RR), systolic arterial blood pressure (SAP), rectal temperature (RT), blood gases, duration of anesthesia and sensitive block level were investigated. Statistical analysis was performed with ANOVA, Tukey test and paired t test. There was a decrease of HR at 15, 30 and 45 minutes after epidural injection in C group when compared with L group. Cardiac dysrhythmias did not observe in both treatments. The variables, SAP, RR, RT and blood gases did not differ between treatments. Duration of anesthesia was 71±13 and 75±26 minutes to L and C treatment, respectively, without difference between groups. The maximal extension of sensitive block was the fourth lumbar vertebra and the tenth thoracic vertebra in L and C treatment, respectively. In conclusion, the addition of clonidine to lidocaine in epidural anesthesia allowed more cranial sensory block in relation to the isolated use of local anesthetic, however, it produced bradycardia and did not prolong the duration of anesthesia.

A anestesia peridural é amplamente difundida no meio veterinário, utilizando-se o anestésico local isolado ou associado aos opióides, capazes de promover aumento do efeito analgésico. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a função cardiorrespiratória e analgésica da ropivacaína isolada ou associada ao fentanil ou tramadol. Para tanto, oito cães foram tranqüilizados com acepromazina, submetidos à anestesia peridural com um dos seguintes protocolos: GR (ropivacaína), GRF (ropivacaína + fentanil), GRT (ropivacaína + tramadol), em volume total de 0,25ml kg-1, e foram avaliados os parâmetros: freqüência cardíaca e respiratória, temperatura retal, pressão arterial sistólica, e gasometria do sangue arterial, os bloqueios sensitivo e motor, o grau de sedação e a ocorrência de possíveis efeitos indesejáveis. A diminuição da freqüência cardíaca nos grupos GRF e GRT foi mais intensa e ocorreu hipotermia significativa no GRF. Foi evidenciada sedação severa em GRF e GRT. O período de recuperação foi mais curto nos animais de GRT. O GRT foi o grupo que apresentou bloqueio mais cranial. Foram observadas bradicardia, hipotermia e síndrome de Shiff-Sherrington no período trans-anestésico em animais de todos os grupos. Nas 24 horas de período pós-anestésico, não foram evidenciados efeitos indesejáveis nos grupos. O GRF apresentou maior duração de anestesia e analgesia, enquanto que o GRT apresentou a menor duração de anestesia com analgesia intermediária e o GR apresentou duração intermediária, com menor analgesia. Não foram encontradas alterações respiratórias e hemogasométricas, porém, bradicardia, hipotermia e síndrome de Schiff-Sherrington, alterações trans-anestésicas comuns na anestesia peridural foram encontradas.Peridural anesthesia is broadly applied in the Veterinary field, using the isolated local anesthetic or in combination with opiates capable to increase the analgesic effect. This research compared analgesia and cardiorespiratory effects of epidural anaesthesia produced by ropivacaine alone or combined with fentanyl or tramadol in eight mixed breed adult dogs after sedation with acepromazina. Drugs were administered on the following protocols: GR (ropivacaine), GRF (ropivacaine + fentanyl), GRT (ropivacaine + tramadol), in 0.25ml kg-1 of total volume. Heart and respiratory rate, rectal temperature, blood pressure and, gasometry of atrial blood were mensured, as well the sensory and motor blockade (latency and period of action), degree of sedation and side effects. The most important decrease of the heart rate occurred in GRF and GRT. Also significant hypothermia in GRF. Intense degree of sedation was observed in GRF and GRT. The period of recovery was shorter in GRT. The most cranial region of blockade occurred in GRT. Bradicardia, hypothermia and Shiff-Sherrington syndrom were observed in the transanesthetic period in animal from all of the groups. During 24 hours after the anaesthesia no side effects were observed. The GRF had the longer period of anesthesia and analgesia, GRT presented the shorter period of anesthesia with intermediate analgesia and, GR presented intermediate period of anesthesia with lower degree of analgesia. Respiratory and hemogasometrics change were not found, but hipotermy, bradicardy and Schiff-Sherrington syndrome, side effects usually seen in peridural anesthesia, were observed in this study.

Abstract Dermoid cysts are rare in the skull base. There have been 10 reported cases of dermoid cysts in the cavernous sinus, two in the petrous apex, and one in the extradural Meckel cave. This is the first case report of a dermoid cyst in the anterior infratemporal fossa attached to the anterior dura of the foramen ovale. The clinical presentation, radiologic findings, histologic features, tumor origin, and operative technique are described along with a review of the literature.

A 37-year-old woman, previously healthy with no history of trauma, presented with a scalp swelling of the left frontal region. The swelling was present for the last one year and had gradually increased in size with recent localized headache. The patient had no neurologic deficit. Local examination showed a painful local swelling of about 25 mm in diameter in the left frontal area and appeared to arise from the bone. Hematological and biochemical investigation results were within the normal range. Computed tomography scan revealed a left frontal intradiploic mass with bone defect (figure A). Magnetic resonance imaging showed that the lesion was soft with homogeneous enhancement following gadolinium injection. There was erosion of both inner and outer table of the cranial vault with extracranial and intracranial extradural extension (figures B and C). The tumor was excised completely and the surrounding bone was removed (figure D), followed by cranial reconstruction. There was no intradural extension of the lesion. Histologically, the tumor was diagnosed as meningothelial meningioma. The patient has been well for 1 year following the operation with no evidence of recurrence. Meninigiomas are primary tumors of arachnoid cell layers and the lesions are in purely settled intradural locations. Meningiomas in extradural locations are very rare and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of osteolytic skull vault lesions.

Spinal hydatid disease is an uncommon cause of spinal cord compression and it constitutes 1% of all cases of hydatid disease. The authors present a case of a 21-year-old female presenting with rapid onset paraplegia caused by pathologically confirmed by extradural spinal hydatid cyst. Patient had marked improvement following surgical intervention. The case is discussed and the relevant literature is briefly reviewed.