Microsurgical treatment of ependymoma in conus medullaris and cauda equina

Abstract

Objective To explore the microsurgical technique of ependymoma in conus medullaris and cauda equina. Methods Sixteen patients with ependymoma confirmed by pathology after operation in conus medullaris and cauda equina were analyzed retrospectively for their clinical manifestations, imaging features and microsurgical treatment. Results All patients conducted preoperative MRI, and total tumor resection was achieved in 14 patients and subtotal resection in 2 patients. The pathological examinations confirmed the tumor as myxopapillary ependymomas in 7 patients. Symptoms of fifteen patients were alleviated significantly after operation. One patient had urine retention after operation and was gradually restored 1 week after operation. All patients were followed up for 1 - 3 months, and there was no case of recurrence. Conclusions Ependymoma in conus medullaris and cauda equina is rare and easily misdiagnosed, with no specific clinical manifestations. MRI should be conducted as soon as possible to identify the diagnosis. Microsurgical treatment is an effective method for ependymoma in conus medullaris and cauda equina. Key words: Ependymoma; Cauda equina; Microsurgery