The Syndrome of Central Cervical Soft Disk Herniation

Abstract

Central herniation of soft disk material into the ventral epidural space is a relatively rare cause of cervical myelopathy. A history of significant antecedent trauma or pain is singularly absent in this syndrome. Spastic ataxia of gait and impaired pain and touch sensibility are the common neurological abnormalities. Typically, the myelopathy develops in the presence of a narrowed cervical spinal canal. The myelographic picture is diagnostic but may be misleading as to the exact level of the herniation. Anterior discectomy and fusion have given excellent relief of symptoms in this group of patients.