Contiguous Diastematomyelia with Lipomyelomeningocele in Each Hemicord-an Exceptional Case of Spinal Dysraphism.

Abstract

Split cord malformation (SCM) is a rare congenital anomaly of the spinal cord. Rarely, SCM coexists with a variety of dysraphic pathologies that occur at the same or different spinal level in a patient. Exceptionally rare is the occurrence of SCM type 1 and lipomeningomyelocele of each hemicord. A 15-month-old girl presented with gradually progressive, painless swelling in the lower back since birth. Spinal imaging showed the presence of type I SCM associated with lipomeningomyelocele of each hemicord. Surgical exploration and detethering was done. Management of such complex cases of spinal dysraphism is challenging. Delineating their embryologic basis, detailed radiologic assessment, and meticulous microneurosurgical techniques are the cornerstone for successful management.