Perineal pain secondary to tethered cord syndrome: retrospective review of single institution experience

Tethered cord syndrome (TCS) encompasses a spectrum of neurological dysfunction related to excessive tension on the distal spinal cord resulting in anatomic deformation and metabolic disturbance. Symptoms typically manifest as back/leg pain, neurogenic bladder dysfunction, constipation, sphincter abnormalities, and scoliosis. To date, among the least well-described symptoms of TCS is pain or hypersensitivity in the perineal region. The authors reviewed their experience with spinal cord detethering to identify and further characterize those who present with perineal pain or hypersensitivity. Cases of spinal cord detethering at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were initially identified by procedural codes. Cases were reviewed for presenting symptoms, specifically perineal pain or hypersensitivity. Magnetic resonance image (MRI) findings, clinical outcome, and length of follow-up were also noted. Of the 491 patients identified, seven patients (1.4 %) were identified as having preoperative perineal pain or hypersensitivity. All of these patients had complete resolution of perineal pain/hypersensitivity at the time of last follow-up. Furthermore, five (71 %) of these patients experienced resolution of all initial symptoms. Perineal pain or hypersensitivity can be an important symptom of spinal cord tethering. Spinal cord detethering may result in a good outcome and relief of perineal pain or hypersensitivity.