Cervical Myelopathy
Due to its subtle innocuous presentation, the true prevalence of cervical myelopathy is not know however it is imperative to diagnose and treat the condition early as prognosis is linked to duration of symptoms.
Definition
Cervical myelopathy is a syndrome of spinal cord dysfunction caused by the compression of the spinal cord.
Clinical Presentation
Presentation is often protean in nature, with common complaints being gait disturbances, fine motor and balance problems
Radiographic Presentation
This often includes x-rays. CT scanning and MRI scanning. An MRI is the most useful tool to evaluate the spinal cord and the offending compressive structures.
Treatment
If evidence of spinal cord compression is present, operative intervention is indicated.