Brown-Sequard syndrome produced by cervical disc herniation with complete neurologic recovery: report of three cases and review of the literature

Abstract

Study design: Case report.

Objective: To report three cases of Brown-Sequard syndrome (BSS) associated with cervical disc herniation.

Method: We describe clinical and radiographic review of three patients who presented with BSS caused by cervical disc herniation. Three patients presented with ipsilateral motor weakness and diminished sensation to pain and temperature on the contralateral side. Magnetic resonance images of the cervical spine in all cases, showed a large paramedian disc herniation at C5-C6, with ipsilateral severe spinal cord compression. Microsurgical removal of the herniated disc via anterior foraminotomy was performed and complete decompression of the spinal cord was achieved.

Results: Postoperatively, the neurological symptoms recovered rapidly with a complete remission of their symptoms.

Conclusion: Although BSS is rarely associated with degenerative cervical spine disease, cervical disc herniation should be kept in mind and prompt evaluation is indicated. Anterior foraminotomy suffices for spinal cord decompression with improvement of the neurological function.