Tethered Spinal Cord Syndrome

Tethered spinal cord syndrome is caused by tissue attachments that limit movement of the spinal cord. The syndrome typically is present at birth and usually becomes apparent during childhood, but sometimes is not diagnosed until adulthood. It also may begin later for various reasons.

Congenital Cause

• Congenital tethered spinal cord syndrome involves improper growth of the spinal cord during fetal development. It frequently is associated with spina bifida, a disorder in which the spinal cord does not separate from the skin of the back.

Childhood Symptoms

• Many symptoms during childhood may point to a tethered spinal cord. They include back and leg pain, leg weakness or numbness, leg deformities, scoliosis, and dimples, skin discoloration or fatty tumors on the lower back.

The Syndrome in Adults

• Rarely, the syndrome is not diagnosed until adulthood, when changes in sensation and loss of bowel or bladder control begin to occur. Also, adults can develop tethered spinal cord from scarring after injury or surgery.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis of tethered spinal cord syndrome is made by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), spinal X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scan or ultrasound.

Treatment

• Surgery is the usual treatment for both children and adults. Some physicians recommend early surgery to prevent future deterioration, while others prefer to wait if there are no significant symptoms.