Syringomyelia

Syringomyelia is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by the formation of a fluid-filled cyst or cavity called a syrinx within the spinal cord. This syrinx can expand over time, damaging the spinal cord and leading to progressive symptoms such as pain, weakness, sensory loss, and impaired motor function. In Bangladesh, syringomyelia often remains underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to limited access to advanced imaging and specialized neurosurgical care outside major urban centers. However, with modern MRI availability and specialized pediatric neurosurgeons like Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman, Assistant Professor of Pediatric Neurosurgery at the National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS&H) and Chief Consultant of Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre, patients now have access to early diagnosis and cutting-edge treatment options. 🧠 Understanding Syringomyelia Syringomyelia occurs when a syrinx—a fluid-filled cavity—develops within the central canal or the substance of the spinal cord. This cyst can enlarge and disrupt normal spinal cord function by compressing nerve fibers. Common causes include: Chiari malformation type I (most common cause) Spinal cord trauma or injury Spinal tumors Meningitis or arachnoiditis Congenital spinal abnormalities such as tethered cord syndrome Post-surgical scarring 🚸 Symptoms of Syringomyelia in Bangladeshi Patients Symptoms develop gradually and vary depending on the syrinx size and location: Chronic neck, shoulder, or back pain Weakness or wasting of hand muscles Loss of pain and temperature sensation, often in a "cape-like" distribution across the shoulders and arms Stiffness or spasticity of limbs Balance difficulties and coordination problems Bladder and bowel dysfunction in advanced cases Scoliosis or spinal deformity, especially in children with associated malformations 🏥 Diagnosis of Syringomyelia in Bangladesh Diagnosis requires high-resolution imaging studies: MRI of the spine (gold standard) to detect the syrinx and any associated abnormalities like Chiari malformation or tethered cord Neurological examination to assess motor, sensory, and reflex changes CT myelography in cases where MRI is contraindicated or unclear At NINS&H and Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre, advanced MRI scanners and expert interpretation facilitate accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. ⚕️ Treatment Options for Syringomyelia Management depends on syrinx size, symptoms, and underlying cause. ✅ Conservative Treatment: Regular clinical and MRI monitoring for small, asymptomatic syrinxes Pain management and physical therapy Activity modification to avoid spinal trauma 🚨 Surgical Treatment: Surgery is indicated in patients with progressive neurological symptoms or large syrinx cavities causing spinal cord compression. Common surgical procedures include: Posterior fossa decompression for Chiari malformation-associated syringomyelia Syrinx shunting procedures to drain the cyst Tethered cord release if tethering is a contributing factor Excision of spinal tumors or correction of arachnoid adhesions Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman specializes in minimally invasive and microsurgical techniques for syringomyelia, ensuring maximal symptom relief and spinal cord preservation. ✅ Postoperative Care and Long-Term Follow-Up After surgery, patients receive: Close neurological monitoring Physical and occupational therapy to restore strength and coordination Serial MRI scans to monitor syrinx resolution Lifestyle counseling to prevent recurrence or injury With timely intervention, many patients achieve significant symptom improvement and improved quality of life. 👨‍⚕️ Why Choose Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman for Syringomyelia Care in Bangladesh? 🎓 Assistant Professor of Pediatric Neurosurgery, NINS&H 🏥 Chief Consultant, Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre 🧠 Experienced in managing complex spinal cord disorders in children and adults 🛠️ Uses advanced microsurgical and neuro-navigation technologies 🇧🇩 Trusted by families across Bangladesh for compassionate, expert care 🌍 Nationwide Patient Access Patients from Dhaka, Chattogram, Rajshahi, Sylhet, Khulna, Barisal, Mymensingh, and rural districts regularly seek expert consultation and treatment with Dr. Nafaur Rahman. Teleconsultations and imaging review services are available for remote patients. 📞 Contact for Appointment and Consultation 📱 Serial Booking Numbers: 📞 +8801912988182 📞 +8801607033535 🌐 Website: www.neurosurgeonnafaur.com Clinic Locations: National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital, Dhaka Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre, Dhaka