Syringomyelia, Cysts, Spinal

There are several reasons syringomyelia may develop including a spinal injury, spinal tumours, scar tissue that develops after surgery or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord). A disorder called a hindbrain hernia (sometimes called Chiari Malformation) causes the lower part of your brain to protrude into your spinal canal causing a blockage.

Symptoms of syringomyelia can include muscle weakness or atrophy, loss of reflex or pain in the neck, arms or back and in severe cases spinal curvature (scoliosis).

It is important to remember that the symptoms of syringomyelia can appear as a result of other disorders. Our experienced neurology and spinal consultants can diagnose and treat syringomyelia in a hospital near you.

Related tests and scans

MRI scan

An MRI is a type of scan that creates detailed images of the inside of your body. Your doctor or healthcare professional has recommended an MRI scan because it is the best way to make an accurate diagnosis of your condition.

Related treatments and procedures

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

An anterior cervical discectomy is an operation performed on your upper spine to relieve pain caused by a herniated disc.

Brain surgery

Brain surgery, also known as neurosurgery, is surgical treatment concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of disorders which affect any portion of the nervous system including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.