Evaluating Sensory Restoration Following Spinal Column Shortening for Tethered Cord Syndrome: A Scoping Review and Illustrative Cases.
Publication/Presentation Date
10-10-2025
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Tethered cord syndrome (TCS) is characterized by the caudal anchoring of the spinal cord, causing restricted movement and tension, leading to neurologic, urologic, musculoskeletal, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Neuropathic sensory loss in the lower extremities is prevalent, increasing infection risk and, in severe cases, resulting in amputation. The potential for sensory recovery following surgical intervention in TCS has not been thoroughly documented. This study reviews existing literature and presents 2 illustrative cases of sensory recovery after spinal column shortening (SCS) following surgical intervention in TCS patients with severe neuropathic sensory loss leading to amputation.
METHODS: A scoping literature review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines to evaluate sensory changes pre- and post-surgery in TCS patients. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted data, and assessed study quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Additionally, chart reviews were conducted for 2 patients who underwent limb amputation and experienced sensory return following tethered cord intervention.
RESULTS: The review revealed 1 case series and 4 retrospective cohort studies on sensation following TCS release, all reporting significant postoperative improvements in pain, strength, and notably, sensation. None specifically addressed TCS-related amputations. Two cases are presented where amputee patients with severe neuropathic sensory loss from TCS experienced sensory recovery after surgical interventions.
CONCLUSIONS: Sensory loss in TCS can lead to sequelae as severe as amputations from repeated wound infections. Surgical intervention may play a role in preventing and treating sensory loss in TCS patients. Further investigation into the mechanisms of sensory loss in TCS is needed.
First Page
124525
Last Page
124525
ISSN
1878-8769
Published In/Presented At
Albdewi, M. J., McVeigh, L., Guley, N., Joshi, R. S., Muraszko, K. M., & Kazemi, N. (2025). Evaluating Sensory Restoration Following Spinal Column Shortening for Tethered Cord Syndrome: A Scoping Review and Illustrative Cases. World neurosurgery, 124525. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wneu.2025.124525
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences
PubMedID
41077184
Department(s)
Department of Surgery
Document Type
Article