Cauda equina, conus medullaris and syndromes mimicking sciatic pain: WFNS spine committee recommendations

CONCLUSION: s: We provide standardized definitions of cauda equina, cauda equina syndrome, conus medullaris, and conus medullaris syndrome. We advocate for the use of the Lavy et al classification system to categorize different types of CES, and recommend urgent MRI in all patients with suspected CES (CESS), considering the low sensitivity of clinical examination in excluding CES. Surgical decompression for CES and CMS is recommended within 48 h, preferably within less than 24 h. There is no data regarding the role of steroids in acute CES or CMS. The treating physician should be cognizant of a variety of other pathologies that may mimic sciatica, including piriformis syndrome, and how to manage these.PMID:38496349 | PMC:PMC10943478 | DOI:10.1016/j.wnsx.2024.100274
Source: Pain Physician - Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Source Type: research