Pediatric spinal cord biopsy: A case series from a high-volume referral center

We report our experience with five patients who met our inclusion criteria. Due to the rarity of the procedure, statistically significant factors associated with improved diagnostic yield or peri-operative complication could not be identified. A definitive diagnosis which guided the post-operative treatment plan was obtained in four of our five patients. None of our patients developed post-operative motor deficits. However, these patients were susceptible to the same risks of open spine surgery, such as wound infections and spinal deformities. Our case series shows that intramedullary spinal cord biopsies may provide tissue for obtaining histopatholgic diagnoses. However, the potential risks of complication, and the possibility of obtaining nondiagnostic tissue, should be discussed with patients, families and their medical treatment teams.
Source: Journal of Clinical Neuroscience - Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research