Posttraumatic spinal cord herniation: A case report

Abstract

Spinal cord herniation (SCH) remains challenging to diagnose, and the progression of the disease is often poorly understood. This case report details a rare instance of posttraumatic SCH occurring 35 years after a severe traffic accident. The patient, a 51-year-old woman, presented with left leg paresis, altered temperature sensation, muscle spasticity, and thoracic pain. MRI revealed a pronounced herniation at the T1/T2 level. The surgical intervention involved adhesiolysis and dural repair, resulting in immediate clinical improvement, including enhanced gait and reduced pain. Postoperative MRI confirmed correct spinal cord relocating, with the patient showing ongoing recovery after nine months. This case represents the importance of recognizing delayed SCH as a potential long-term complication of spinal trauma and points out the benefits of surgical intervention for optimal recovery.