Meningocele manqué: radiologic findings with clinical correlation

Abstract

Purpose: To determine whether meningocele manqué can be detected by neuroimaging techniques in dysraphic patients.

Methods: We reviewed the records and imaging studies of 16 patients with surgically proved meningocele manqué seen at our institution between 1989 and 1990. Both CT and MR imaging techniques were used. CT of the spine was performed immediately following contrast myelography.

Results: Nine of 16 patients (CT, four; and MR, five) showed evidence of meningocele manqué which corresponded to intraoperative findings. Fourteen of 16 patients were found to have diastematomyelia, eight with medium septum and six without a septum. Associated findings included syrinx (six), lipoma (five), dermoid cyst (one), and neuroenteric cyst (one). After completing this review, we were able to prospectively diagnose dorsal bands in two new patients; these bands were confirmed at surgery.

Conclusion: Dorsal bands can be detected in dysraphic patients with CT or MR using operative findings as a road map.