In syringomyelia, a fluid-filled, longitudinal cavity, known as the syrinx, forms in the spinal cord. In this cavity, there are no nerve cells, so no stimuli can be transferred. The condition usually affects the cervical and thoracic spines. Multiple syrinxes can develop at once.
This cavity formation is probably caused by impairment of the circulation of the cerebrospinal fluid. This can be caused by inflammation, malformations or following trauma.
Since the spinal cord, being part of the central nervous system, also supplies the extremities - the arms and legs - pain can quickly radiate to other parts of the body. Many patients experience altered sensation.
This can include, for example, tingling and a feeling of numbness in the hands or feet, or a reduced temperature - or pain in the affected areas. Depending on the location and number of syrinxes, however, the effects can vary and, as a result, we cannot provide you with a definitive list of symptoms.
Only a detailed examination (MRI) allows the cavities to be localised and then treated.
Various treatment methods for syringomyelia allow us to stop the cavity from enlarging and in some cases even reduce its size. Physiotherapy in the context of conservative treatment or surgical procedures are usually the approaches of choice. With the aid of microsurgery we access the cavity and create a connection between the syrinx and the epidural space. This relieves the spinal cord.