Syringosubarachnoid shunt: insertion technique

Abstract

Background: Syringomyelia is a rare disorder but its impact on patients' quality of life can be devastating. The exact pathophysiology remains unknown; the syrinx can either be idiopathic or associated with conditions such as Chiari malformation, scoliosis, malignancy, infection and trauma. Several techniques have been described to decompress syringomyelia with distal drainage to the subarachnoid space, pleura or peritoneum.

Method: We present a modification of the syringosubarachnoid shunt insertion technique with minimal myelotomy and the use of a T shaped shunt which does not require suturing to the pia matter to prevent shunt migration.

Conclusion: This technique for syringosubarachnoid shunt insertion is likely to prevent shunt migration and scarring whilst minimizing suturing and optimising syrinx decompression.

Keywords: Chiari type I malformation; Syringomyelia; syringosubarachnoid shunt; syrinx.