Abstract
Background
Tumors of the cauda equina usually require surgery due to their impingement on neighboring nerve roots, often resulting in pain and neurological deficits.
Method
The Authors first give a brief introduction on cauda equina tumors, followed by a description of the surgical anatomy, and then develop the microsurgical technique. In particular, tricks to avoid complications are presented, underlining the importance of intraoperative neuromonitoring.
Conclusion
Both microsurgical technique and neuromonitoring are important in cauda equina tumor surgery, the goal of which is to achieve complete resection while at the same time preserving neurological function.
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The Authors show the surgical video concerning the resection of cauda equina ependymoma in a 65 year old man, suffering from left-sided L4 cruralgia for many months. Cranial is on the left, caudal is to the right. The patient’s right side is on the top of the image. (WMV 177796 kb)
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Tessitore, E., Cabrilo, I., Boex, C. et al. Cauda equina tumor surgery: how I do it. Acta Neurochir 154, 1815–1820 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00701-012-1456-4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00701-012-1456-4