If you request an evaluation for CCI/AAI and include the required lumbar imaging, investigation for Tethered cord can be included. If you suspect Tethered Cord and also have CCI symptoms, we strongly recommend that you undergo the same imaging as for craniocervical instability with the additional imaging listed below.
Tethered cord is a condition where the end of the spinal cord gets stuck to the spinal canal. It can occur during foetal development (congenital) or as a result of spinal damage. In some cases, especially in EDS patients, the tethering is “occult”, thus an initial supine MRI shows no abnormalities.
A normal supine (face up) lumbar MRI alone is usually not adequate in investigating for Occult Tethered Cord. A prone and supine lumbar MRI allow us to compare both images. Obtaining a prone (face down) lumbar MRI with clear imaging is difficult as the prone position causes respiratory artifacts (blurry imaging from breathing). In Barcelona we use a 3T MRI machine with artificial intelligence and special sequencing to produce clear images. Please be aware that unless the clinic engaged has experience in prone imaging, the results will most likely be blurry and not be adequate for evaluation .
Surgery should be the last option. However if symptoms significantly affect quality of life, a tethered cord release could be considered. Cord untethering usually involves a hemilaminectomy (removing a small part of the vertebrae) and then cutting the filum terminale, a stringy tissue that runs down the bottom of the spinal cord.
If you obtain the imaging locally, please contact us using the form here below and we will respond with a link for you to upload your imaging to us. Once all scans are correctly completed and uploaded, you will receive a set of comprehensive questionnaires from which we will gather your personal information, your clinical history, and symptomology. You may then schedule a Zoom or a face-to-face consultation with Dr Gilete to review his findings, ask questions, and discuss further treatment options. You have the option to request a report from the visit.
If you come to us in Barcelona, you can choose an imaging package with the prone and supine lumbar MRI. Please click HERE to see our imaging packages.
Please use the form here below to contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible:
I would like to request an evaluation from Dr Gilete regarding:
