Spinal Malformations
Understanding Spinal Malformations: A Comprehensive Overview
Spinal malformations, which are congenital anomalies present at birth, encompass irregularities in the bone or soft tissue of the head and spine. The severity of malformations varies based on the specific condition, with some of the more prevalent conditions including:
- Chiari malformations: characterized by the extension of brain tissue into the spinal canal
- Spina bifida: entails incomplete brain or spinal cord development, or insufficient protective covering around them
- Arteriovenous malformations: marked by tangles of arteries and veins in the brain or spinal cord
- Arachnoid cysts: fluid-filled sacs emerging within one of the three layers covering the central nervous system
- Cavernous malformations: clusters of anomalous blood vessels leading to sluggish blood flow
Unveiling Common Indications
Due to the array of conditions, symptoms manifest diversely. While some individuals may remain asymptomatic, with their conditions discovered incidentally during the diagnosis or treatment of unrelated issues, others encounter debilitating and life-threatening symptoms. These may encompass neurological complications, back pain, sensory loss, seizures, and visual disturbances. Although the condition may be present since birth, symptoms might progress gradually over time or remain latent until adulthood.
Diagnosing a Spinal Malformation
Certain malformations become apparent during pregnancy or birth. In other instances, imaging evaluations like computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are conducted by your physician to unveil the presence of a malformation. Angiography, utilizing contrast dye to enhance blood vessel visibility on X-rays, may also provide insights into the blood vessel structure.
Navigating Treatment Pathways
Tailored treatment hinges on the malformation type and symptomatic presentation. Asymptomatic malformations might necessitate monitoring, while those inducing complications could necessitate surgical intervention or stereotactic radiosurgery options such as CyberKnife®.
The accomplished team at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center collaborates with patients in determining the most fitting treatment trajectory. Their proficiency in minimally invasive spine surgery equips them to address disc disorders and disease, employing cutting-edge techniques to alleviate discomfort and reinstate an active lifestyle. To arrange appointments with North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center, kindly reach out to 919-784-7550.
Contact Us For An Appointment
The care team at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center can help you decide on the treatment that's best for you. They specialize in minimally invasive surgery and are experienced in diagnosing and treating disorders and diseases, using the newest techniques for relieving pain and returning you to an active lifestyle. To make an appointment at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center call 919-784-7550.
Need More Help?
