Split cord malformation

Mechanism and manifestations

Diastematomyelia and diplomyelia appear in some historical descriptions. Scoliosis, skin findings or neurological and sphincter difficulties may lead to diagnosis.

Diagnosis and management

MRI defines the hemicords and associated abnormalities; CT may clarify a bony septum. Neurosurgical assessment determines monitoring or intervention, particularly with symptomatic tethering.

Points to consider

A congenital anomaly may be detected early or incidentally in adulthood. Its effects depend on associated structures and evolution, not simply its name. Follow-up may involve several specialties, particularly with neurological changes or progressive deformity.

Role of TAGMED care

This condition first requires medical diagnosis and, depending on the situation, specialist management. TAGMED services do not replace treatment of infection or tumor, stabilization of an unstable injury, or neurological or vascular treatment. Any conservative support should be considered only after diagnosis, restrictions and the treating team’s recommendations have been clarified.

Related concepts and distinctions

These concepts belong to the same field, but are not synonyms.

• Myelomeningocele — Form of spinal dysraphism in which meninges and neural tissue protrude through an abnormal opening in the spine.
• Meningocele — Malformation in which meninges and cerebrospinal fluid protrude through a spinal defect, without spinal cord tissue in the typical sac.
• Lumbarization of S1 — Segmentation variant in which the first sacral segment retains lumbar-like characteristics and mobility.

Medical references

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Spina Bifida.
2. Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Neural Tube Defects: Condition Information.

References document the topic; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of TAGMED services by those organizations.