Spinal Arachnoid Cyst

A spinal arachnoid cyst is a fluid-filled sac located within or adjacent to the arachnoid membrane of the spinal cord, one of the protective layers surrounding the central nervous system. These cysts may be congenital (present at birth) or acquired due to trauma, infection, or prior spinal surgery. In children, these cysts can compress the spinal cord or nerve roots, resulting in a wide range of neurological symptoms. Though rare, spinal arachnoid cysts should be taken seriously due to the potential for progressive and sometimes irreversible nerve damage if left untreated. 🌍 Bangladesh Perspective In Bangladesh, spinal arachnoid cysts in children are often underdiagnosed due to: Lack of advanced MRI imaging in peripheral health centers Misdiagnosis as cerebral palsy, muscle disorders, or orthopedic deformities Delayed referrals to pediatric neurosurgery specialists Children often present late with weakness, walking difficulties, or urinary problems, by which time the cyst may have already caused significant spinal cord compression. Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman, a renowned pediatric neurosurgeon in Bangladesh, is among the few specialists equipped to diagnose and surgically treat spinal arachnoid cysts with microsurgical precision and neuro-monitoring support. 🧬 Types of Spinal Arachnoid Cysts Intramedullary Cyst – Within the spinal cord substance (very rare) Intradural Extramedullary Cyst – Inside the dura, outside the cord (most common) Extradural Arachnoid Cyst – Outside the dura mater, may extend into bone 🧒 Symptoms of Spinal Arachnoid Cyst in Children Symptoms depend on the cyst's location and size: Back pain or stiffness Weakness or spasticity in arms or legs Gait disturbances, toe-walking, or frequent falls Sensory disturbances: tingling, numbness Bladder or bowel dysfunction Scoliosis or spinal deformity in long-standing cases Delay in motor milestones in infants and toddlers 🔍 Diagnosis 🧠 MRI Spine – Gold Standard Visualizes the exact location, size, and compression effect of the cyst Helps differentiate it from tumors, syringomyelia, or tethered cord 🦴 CT Myelography (If MRI inconclusive) Useful in identifying communication between cyst and subarachnoid space 🧪 Neurological Assessment Evaluation of reflexes, muscle tone, power, and sensory loss 🧬 Urodynamic Study Indicated in children with bladder involvement 🛠️ Treatment Options 🩺 Observation Asymptomatic cysts can be monitored with serial MRI scans Close follow-up is essential to catch early signs of progression 🧠 Surgical Intervention Surgery is indicated for symptomatic or progressively enlarging cysts: Microsurgical Excision Removal of the cyst wall and decompression of the spinal cord Safe and effective in experienced hands Fenestration Creating a window in the cyst to allow fluid to flow into the CSF pathway Shunt Placement Rarely, a cysto-peritoneal shunt may be placed to drain cyst fluid in recurring cases Intraoperative neuromonitoring is used to protect spinal nerves during surgery, minimizing complications. 🔄 Postoperative Outcomes Most children who undergo timely surgery experience: Improvement in motor weakness Recovery of bladder function if not severely damaged Better balance and gait Prevention of long-term neurological disability Recovery depends on preoperative symptoms, duration, and extent of spinal cord compression. 👨‍⚕️ Why Choose Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman? National expert in pediatric spinal anomalies and neurosurgical cyst excision Experienced with microsurgical decompression of spinal cord lesions Operates with advanced neuromonitoring tools at NINS and Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre Offers multidisciplinary care, involving pediatric neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, physiotherapists, and urologists Accessible for families across Bangladesh, from remote villages to metropolitan Dhaka 📞 Book an Appointment Now Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman Assistant Professor, Pediatric Neurosurgery, National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS) Chief Consultant, Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre 📞 For Serial or Consultation: 01912988182 | 01607033535 🌐 Website: www.neurosurgeonnafaur.com