[Contribution of ultrasonic cavitation--CO2 laser combination in the excision of panmedullary ependymoma]

Abstract

The authors report an uncommon case of panmedullary ependymoma (C2 to T12), totally removed in one stage with the use of ultrasonic cavitation and CO2 laser. The preoperative topographical diagnosis without M.R.I. was very difficult. CO2 laser in addition with ultrasonic cavitation allows the removal of the tumor without any prohibitive tractions on the spinal cord. The stable course with a long follow-up period (seven years) confirms the good prognosis of such a pathology.