Syringomyelia
Treatment:
The goals of treatment are to stop progression of spinal cord damage and to maximize functioning.
Surgical decompression (drainage and removal of the cavity) reduces the pressure on the spinal cord. Physical therapy may be needed to maximize muscular function.
Expectations (prognosis):
Untreated, the disorder is very slowly progressive but eventually results in severe disability. Surgical decompression usually stops the progression of the disorder, with about 50% of people showing significant improvement in neurologic function after surgical decompression.
Complications:
- postoperative infection
- other surgical complications
- continued or progressive loss of neurologic function
- permanent disability
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate syringomyelia may be present.
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