Syringostomy using myringostomy tube: technical note

Abstract

Objective: We describe the concept of a new syringostomy technique.

Methods: The technique includes the insertion of a myringostomy tube through a small myelotomy at the level of maximum enlargement of the syrinx. The inner diameter of the myringostomy tube is 1.14 mm.

Results: This technique reduces the potential risks that are associated with other techniques that use bulky silastic catheters that are left inside the spinal cord.

Conclusion: We think that this technique is the least invasive of all similar techniques and that, in terms of drainage, the myringostomy tube is as efficient as commonly used silastic catheters.