Síndrome de Brown-Séquard como forma de presentación de mielitis transversa idiopática / Brown-Séquard syndrome as a presentation of idiopathic transverse myelitis

El síndrome de Brown-Séquard es el conjunto de signos y síntomas causado por hemisección medular de diversos orígenes. Puede generarse por múltiples causas; las traumáticas son las más frecuentes. Las causas menos frecuentes son patología inflamatoria, isquémica, tumoral o infecciosa. Se presenta un niño de 12 años, con instauración aguda y progresiva de un síndrome de hemisección medular derecho, con parálisis hipo/arrefléctica homolateral y afectación de sensibilidad termoalgésica contralateral. En la resonancia magnética de médula espinal, se observó compromiso inflamatorio en hemimédula derecha a nivel de segunda y tercera vértebras torácicas. Con diagnóstico de mielitis transversa idiopática, inició tratamiento con corticoide intravenoso a altas dosis con evolución clínica favorable y restitución de las funciones neurológicas.

Brown-Séquard syndrome refers to a set of signs and symptoms caused by hemisection of the spinal cord from various sources. It may have multiple causes; traumatic injuries are the most frequent ones. The less common causes include inflammation, ischemia, tumors, or infections. This report is about a 12-year-old boy with an acute and progressive course of right hemisection of the spinal cord, with ipsilateral hypo/areflexic paralysis and contralateral loss of thermalgesic sensation. The MRI of the spinal cord showed inflammation in the right side of the spinal cord at the level of the second and third thoracic vertebrae. The patient was diagnosed with idiopathic transverse myelitis and was started on intravenous high-dose corticosteroids; he showed a favorable clinical course and recovered neurological functions.

Parálisis aislada del músculo oblicuo inferior izquierdo

La parálisis aislada del músculo oblicuo inferior constituye la parálisis menos frecuente de todas las que afectan a los músculos extraoculares. Se realiza la presentación de una paciente de seis años de edad con antecedentes de salud que fue traída por su madre a la consulta de oftalmología pediátrica y estrabismo por presentar una desviación ocular desde los primeros meses de nacida. Se planteó como posibles diagnósticos un síndrome de Brown del ojo izquierdo o una parálisis del músculo oblicuo inferior izquierdo, se confirmó el segundo diagnóstico con el test de ducción forzada. Existen varias opciones quirúrgicas para estos pacientes. El objetivo fue determinar si se logra el alineamiento quirúrgico en la posición primaria de mirada con la intervención quirúrgica propuesta de recesión del recto superior derecho 5 mm. La paciente se encuentra alineada en posición primaria de mirada, sin limitación de las versiones y sin tortícoli.

Isolated palsy of the inferior oblique muscle is the least frequent of all palsies affecting the extraocular muscles. We present a six-year-old female patient with a medical history who was brought by her mother to the pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus clinic because she presented an ocular deviation since the first months of her life. A Brown's syndrome of the left eye or left inferior oblique muscle palsy was proposed as possible diagnoses, the second diagnosis was confirmed with the forced duction test. There are several surgical options for these patients. The objective was to determine if surgical alignment in the primary gaze position is achieved with the proposed surgical intervention of right superior rectus recession 5 mm. The patient is aligned in the primary gaze position, without limitation of the versions and without torticollis.

Síndrome de Brown-Séquard por hernia discal cervical / Brown-Séquard syndrome due to cervical disc herniation

RESUMEN Introducción: El síndrome de Brown-Séquard representa entre el 1 y el 4 % de todas las lesiones medulares espinales; es muy infrecuente. Compromete la mitad lateral de la médula espinal y se afectan unilateralmente las estructuras o funciones del segmento dorsal, el tracto corticoespinal y el tracto espinotalámico. Objetivo: Mostrar una forma de presentación atípica de la hernia discal cervical en una paciente joven sin antecedentes de traumatismo ni esfuerzo físico. Caso clínico: Paciente femenina de 24 años de edad, que presenta disminución de la fuerza muscular en los miembros del lado izquierdo, de forma progresiva, con dificultades para deambular, así como dolor cervical de intensidad moderada. Se le diagnostica una hernia discal cervical y se realiza tratamiento quirúrgico con evolución satisfactoria. Conclusiones: En el síndrome de Brown-Séquard causado por discopatía cervical, el tratamiento oportuno determina de forma esencial el mejoramiento de los síntomas de forma rápida; la fisioterapia y rehabilitación juegan un papel fundamental en la recuperación motora.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Brown-Séquard syndrome accounts for 1 to 4 % of all spinal cord injuries, very infrequent. It involves the lateral half of the spinal cord and the structures and/or functions of the dorsal segment, the corticospinal tract and the spinothalamic tract are unilaterally affected. Objective: To show an atypical presentation of cervical disc herniation in a young female patient with no history of trauma or physical exertion. Clinical case: A 24-year-old female patient presented with a progressive decrease in muscle strength on the left side of the limbs, with difficulty in walking, as well as moderate cervical pain. She was diagnosed with a cervical disc herniation and surgical treatment was performed with satisfactory evolution. Conclusions: In Brown-Séquard Syndrome caused by cervical disc disease, timely treatment is essential for rapid improvement of symptoms; physiotherapy and rehabilitation play a key role in motor recovery.

Diagnóstico de SCIWORA asociado a síndrome de Brown Séquard en un adolescente / Diagnosis of SCIWORA associated with Brown Séquard syndrome in an adolescent

Resumen: El término SCIWORA (Spinal Cord Injury Without Radiologic Abnormality) describe una patología poco frecuente que afecta principalmente a pacientes pediátricos. Presentamos el caso de un paciente adolescente diagnosticado con SCIWORA/síndrome de Brown Séquard, el cual presenta múltiples contusiones en cuello y hemicuerpo derecho, de manera inmediata refiere parestesias en las cuatro extremidades y hemiparesia espástica con predominio derecho, incapacidad a la bipedestación y continencia urinaria. Se inicia tratamiento basado en el estudio NASCIS III y posterior a la pruebas de imagen se realizó diagnóstico ya comentado. Exponemos las definiciones más actuales de SCIWORA y las recomendaciones para realizar su diagnóstico así como su relación y coexistencia con síndromes medulares.

Abstract: SCIWORA (Spinal Cord Injury without Radiologic Abnormality) is a rare condition that mainly affects pediatric patients; We present the case of a teenage male patient diagnosed with SCIWORA/Brown Séquard Syndrome. In admission, he has multiple bruises on his neck and right hemibody and immediately he refers paraesthesia in all four limbs and spastic hemiparesis with right predominance, as well as inability to stand up and urinary continence. Treatment based on NASCIS III study is initiated and after the imaging tests, a diagnosis has already been made. We present the most current definitions of SCIWORA and the recommendations to make its diagnosis, as well as its relationship and coexistence with spinal syndromes.

Eficacia en el diagnóstico y tratamiento del síndrome de Brown / Efficacy of the diagnosis and treatment of Brown syndrome

RESUMEN Objetivo: Identificar las características clínicas y los criterios quirúrgicos en el síndrome de Brown. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo a 15 pacientes con el diagnóstico de síndrome de Brown, quienes acudieron a la Consulta de Visión Binocular del Hospital Infantil Sur "Dr. Antonio María Béguez César". Se incluyeron los niños con edades entre 2 a 7 años, con el diagnóstico definido de síndrome de Brown; se realizó exploración motora y sensorial completa y se evaluó el ojo afectado, el tipo de síndrome de Brown que tenía el paciente, las características clínicas y los criterios quirúrgicos tenidos en cuenta para resolver una conducta adecuada. Resultados: En la muestra estudiada el 66,5 por ciento de los pacientes tuvo afectado el ojo derecho con un síndrome de Brown leve; el 73 por ciento estuvo en ortotropía y el 73,3 por ciento no fue quirúrgico. Conclusión: Los pacientes con síndrome de Brown leve que permanecen en ortotropía, sin tortícolis y sin depresión en aducción, no requieren intervención quirúrgica(AU)

ABSTRACT Objective: Identify the clinical characteristics of and surgical criteria for Brown syndrome. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted of 15 patients diagnosed with Brown syndrome attending the binocular vision service at Dr. Antonio María Béguez César South University Children's Hospital. The sample included children aged 2-7 years with a definite diagnosis of Brown syndrome. Complete motor and sensory exploration was done, and evaluation was performed of the affected eye, Brown syndrome type, clinical characteristics and surgical criteria considered to select the appropriate management. Results: 66.5 percent of the study sample had their right eye affected by mild Brown syndrome, 73 percent were orthotropic, and 73.3 percent were not surgical cases. Conclusion: Patients with mild Brown syndrome who remained orthotropic, without torticollis or adduction depression, did not require surgical intervention(AU)

Síndrome de Brown-Séquard desde su descubrimiento / Brown-Séquard Syndrome since its discovery

Charles-Edouard Brown-Séquard (1817-1894) fue un importante científico reconocido por sus investigaciones sobre la médula espinal. Nació en la isla de Mauricio, adquirió un gusto por la literatura, incluso para partir a París con veinte años junto con su madre para convertirse en escritor. Al fracasar en este sueño, inició su carrera de medicina, destacándose por sus descubrimientos en la fisiología de la médula espinal, ampliamente descritos en su tesis de grado, en 1846, y posteriormente, en 1855, cuando acuñó el síndrome con su nombre. Sus estudios incluyeron las áreas de epilepsia, control simpático en el mecanismo vasomotor, redes interneuronales y endocrinología. Este artículo resalta los aportes de este genio y explica la historia del síndrome con su nombre. Además, expone, entre otros temas de interés, el análisis del artículo original publicado en 1855. Desde una revisión histórica sobre patología de la médula espinal, luego de su trabajo e investigaciones de esta área. Terminando con su trabajo, donde por medio de casos y experimentos, demostró los hallazgos que se conocerían como síndrome de Brown-Séquard, que ha inspirado numerosos estudios posteriores.

Charles-Edouard Brown-Séquard (1817-1894), was a remarked scientific by his investigations mainly of the spinal cord, born on Mauritius Island acquired a taste for literature, even to go to Paris at 15 years old with his mother to become a writer. Failing in this dream, began his career in medicine, standing out for discoveries in the physiology of the spinal cord, described in his thesis of degree in 1846 and later in 1855 when he coined the syndrome with his name. His studies included subjects in epilepsy, sympathetic control of vasomotor mechanism, interneuronal networks and advances in endocrinology. This article highlights the contributions of this genius and explains the history of the syndrome with his name. In addition, among other topics of interest, it exposes the analysis of the original article published in 1855. From a historical review on spinal cord pathology, followed by his work and investigations of this area. Finishing with his work, where it demonstrates the findings that would be known as Brown-Séquard syndrome through cases and experiments.

Síndrome de Brown Sequard em associação à síndrome de Horner / Brown Sequard Syndrome In Association With Horner Syndrome

O trauma raquimedular (TRM) é uma importante causa de incapacidade, sendo constatado uma incidência média de 21 pacientes por milhão de habitantes por ano por uma revisão sistemática realizada nas cinco regiões do pais em. Em Belo Horizonte essa incidência chegou a 26 pacientes por milhão por ano. Trata-se de AFC, 28 anos, que foi encaminhado com urgência para o Hospital João XXIII com história de agressão por arma branca (um facão) na região supra clavicular esquerda no dia 22/10. Ao exame neurológico o paciente encontrava-se consciente, orientado e com hemiplegia á esquerda. Anestesia tátil e vibratória á esquerda (lesão do trato corticoespinhal e fascículo grácil e cuneiforme) e preservada á direita, além de anestesia térmica/dolorosa contralateral a hemissecção (lesão do trato espinotalâmico), que configuram a síndrome de Brown Sequard completa. Foi realizada tomografia computadorizada da coluna que evidenciou fratura de lâmina de T1. A ferida lacerante foi suturada e paciente manteve quadro estável por 5 dias. Após 7 dias da admissão hospitalar constatou-se anisocoria com pupila miótica à esquerda e ptose de pálpebra também a esquerda, que configura a síndrome de Horner concomitantemente. Foi realizada punção lombar constatando liquor hemorrágico e com alta celularidade, iniciado antibioticoterapia com Meropenem e Vancomicina. Relata-se a correlação anátomoclínica de paciente vitima de TRM aberto, com síndromes associadas, de hemissecção medular e Horner. Ressalta-se a importância dos conhecimentos em neuroanatomia. (AU)

Spinal cord trauma is an important cause of disability, with an average incidence of 21 patients per million inhabitants per year by a systematic review in the five regions of Brazil. In Belo Horizonte, this incidence reached 26 patients per million per year. This is the AFC, 28 years old, who was referred urgently to the Hospital João XXIII with a history of white-collar aggression (a machete) in the left supraclavicular region on 22/10. At the neurological examination the patient was conscious, oriented and with left hemiplegia. Tactile and vibratory anesthesia to the left (lesion of the corticospinal tract and gracile and cuneiform fasciculus) and preserved to the right, in addition to thermal / painful anesthesia contralateral to the hemisection (lesion of the spinothalamic tract), which constitute the complete Brown Sequard syndrome. Computed tomography of the spine was performed, showing a T1 fracture. The lacerating wound was sutured and patient maintained stable frame for 5 days. After 7 days of hospital admission, anisocoria was observed with miotic pupil on the left and ptosis of the eyelid also on the left, which configures Horner syndrome concomitantly. A lumbar puncture was performed, confirming hemorrhagic and high cellularity, and antibiotic therapy with Meropenem and Vancomycin. The anatomic-clinical correlation of a patient with open MTR with associated syndromes of medullary and Horner hemisection is reported. The importance of knowledge in neuroanatomy is emphasized. (AU)

Lesiones medulares por arma blanca. Presentación de casos clínicos y propuesta de manejo / Spinal cord injuries. Presentation of clinical cases and management proposal

Resumen: Las lesiones raquimedulares producidas por arma blanca son poco frecuentes, pero constituyen hasta un 10% de las lesiones penetrantes espinales. Se presentan tres casos de lesiones raquimedulares causadas por arma blanca, se trata de dos mujeres y un hombre que recibieron agresiones con cuchillos a nivel del dorso. Una lesión fue a nivel torácico y dos a nivel cervical. Se trataba de lesiones medulares incompletas y recibieron un manejo conservador. La evolución fue buena en dos pacientes y mala en uno, que requirió en diferido asistencia respiratoria mecánica y agravó su déficit motor (cuadriparesia a prácticamente una cuadriplejia). En base a estos casos, los autores hacen una revisión del tema y plantean un esquema de manejo diagnóstico y terapéutico para las lesiones raquimedulares penetrantes no causadas por arma de fuego.

Abstract Spinal cord injuries are rare, but constitute up to 10% of spinal penetrating lesions. There are three cases of spinal cord injury, two women and one man who were attacked by knives at the level of the back. One injury was at the thoracic level and two at the cervical level. They were incomplete medullary lesions and received conservative management. The evolution was good in two patients and poor in one, which required a delayed mechanical ventilation and aggravated its motor deficit (quadriparesis to practically a quadriplegia). Based on these cases, the authors make a review of the subject and propose a diagnostic and therapeutic management scheme for penetrating spinal cord injuries not caused by firearms.

Síndrome de Brown-Séquard em associação à síndrome de Horner / Brown Sequard Syndrome In Association With Horner Syndrome

O trauma raquimedular (TRM) é uma importante causa de incapacidade, sendo constatado uma incidência média de 21 pacientes por milhão de habitantes por ano por uma revisão sistemática realizada nas cinco regiões do pais em. Em Belo Horizonte essa incidência chegou a 26 pacientes por milhão por ano. Trata-se de AFC, 28 anos, que foi encaminhado com urgência para o Hospital João XXIII com história de agressão por arma branca (um facão) na região supra clavicular esquerda no dia 22/10. Ao exame neurológico o paciente encontrava-se consciente, orientado e com hemiplegia á esquerda. Anestesia tátil e vibratória á esquerda (lesão do trato corticoespinhal e fascículo grácil e cuneiforme) e preservada á direita, além de anestesia térmica/dolorosa contralateral a hemissecção (lesão do trato espinotalâmico), que configuram a síndrome de Brown Sequard completa. Foi realizada tomografia computadorizada da coluna que evidenciou fratura de lâmina de T1. A ferida lacerante foi suturada e paciente manteve quadro estável por 5 dias. Após 7 dias da admissão hospitalar constatou-se anisocoria com pupila miótica à esquerda eptose de pálpebra também a esquerda, que configura a síndrome de Horner concomitantemente. Foi realizada punção lombar constatando liquor hemorrágico e com alta celularidade, iniciado antibioticoterapia com Meropenem e Vancomicina. Relata-se a correlação anátomoclínica de paciente vitima de TRM aberto, com síndromes associadas, de hemissecção medular e Horner. Ressalta-se a importância dos conhecimentos em neuroanatomia. (AU)

Spinal cord trauma is an important cause of disability, with an average incidence of 21 patients per million inhabitants per year by a systematic review in the five regions of Brazil. In Belo Horizonte, this incidence reached 26 patients per million per year. This is the AFC, 28 years old, who was referred urgently to the Hospital João XXIII with a history of white-collar aggression (a machete) in the left supraclavicular region on 22/10. At the neurological examination the patient was conscious, oriented and with left hemiplegia. Tactile and vibratory anesthesia to the left (lesion of the corticospinal tract and gracile and cuneiform fasciculus) and preserved to the right, in addition to thermal / painful anesthesia contralateral to the hemisection (lesion of the spinothalamic tract), which constitute the complete Brown Sequard syndrome. Computed tomography of the spine was performed, showing a T1 fracture. The lacerating wound was sutured and patient maintained stable frame for 5 days. After 7 days of hospital admission, anisocoria was observed with miotic pupil on the left and ptosis of the eyelid also on the left, which configures Horner syndrome concomitantly. A lumbar puncture was performed, confirming hemorrhagic and high cellularity, and antibiotic therapy with Meropenem and Vancomycin. The anatomic-clinical correlation of a patient with open MTR with associated syndromes of medullary and Horner hemisection is reported. The importance of knowledge in neuroanatomy is emphasized. (AU)

Tratamento cirúrgico do traumatismo raquimedular por arma branca retida em coluna cervical: relato de caso / Surgical Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury Caused by Knife Held in Cervical Spine: Case Report

As lesões traumáticas da medula espinhal provocadas por objetos perfurantes retidos são raras e configuram um desafio para o cirurgião da coluna vertebral. A cirurgia precoce pode minimizar o risco de sequela neurológica. Exames de diagnósticos por imagem são fundamentais para o planejamento e sucesso terapêutico, mas não devem retardar o tratamento cirúrgico. Os autores descrevem um caso de lesão medular por arma branca retida provocando a síndrome de Brown-Séquard e discutema abordagem terapêutica. Os objetivos da cirurgia são a retirada do objeto retido, sem causar déficit motor ou sensitivo adicional, e a correção da lesão dural e de eventuais instabilidades da coluna.

Traumatic spinal cord injuries caused by perforating retained objects are rare and challenging for spinal surgeons. Early surgery can minimize the risk of neurological sequelae. Diagnostic imaging exams are essential for planning and therapeutic success, but should not delay surgical treatment. The authors describe a case of spinal cord injury by stab retained causing Brown-Sequard syndrome and discuss the therapeutic approach. The goal of surgery is the removal of the object retained without causing additional motor or sensory deficit, fix the dural injury and possible spinal instabilities.

Hérnia discal cervical não traumática e Síndrome de Brown-Séquard: relato de caso e revisão da literatura / Nontraumatic cervical discal herniation and Brown-Séquard's Syndrome: case report and literature review

A Síndrome de Brown-Séquard (SBS) é caracterizada pela perda da função motora, propriocepção e sensibilidade vibratória ipsilateral e perda da sensibilidade tátil e dolorosa contralateral à hemissecção medular. É principalmente causada por fraturas da coluna vertebral ou tumores extramedulares. Hérnia discal cervical não traumática é uma etiologia rara, havendo 31 relatos em literatura indexada até o momento. Paciente do sexo masculino, 23 anos, admitido com parestesia em dimídio esquerdo e fraqueza no hemicorpo direito há cerca de 35 dias da internação. Sem relatos de trauma. Ao exame: consciente e orientado, hemiparesia à direita e hemi-hipoestesia tátil dolorosa à esquerda com nível motor e sensitivo em C7. Os exames de imagem evidenciaram um canal estreito cervical de C4-T1, presença de hérnia discal extrusa C5-C6 e hipersinal medular a esse nível. Foi submetido à discectomia e artrodese cervical anterior de C5-C6. No pós-operatório, evoluiu com tetraplegia flácida (nível motor/sensitivo em C8). Os exames de controle mostraram correto posicionamento do instrumental cirúrgico, ausência de hérnias discais e manutenção do hipersinal medular. Após oito meses de reabilitação e seguimento ambulatorial, permanece tetraparético. Descrevemos o primeiro caso brasileiro, em literatura indexada, de SBS causada por hérnia discal cervical não traumática. Há um predomínio pelo sexo masculino, a média de idade é de 45 anos e o disco intervertebral C5-C6 é o mais acometido. Microdiscectomia e fusão intersomática são as formas mais comuns de tratamento. Após a descompressão precoce, há um bom prognóstico, com recuperação da motricidade na maioria dos casos.

The Brown-Séquard's Syndrome is characterized by loss of motor function, proprioception and vibration sensitivity ipsilateral and loss of tactile and painful contralateral to hemisection spinal cord. It is mainly caused by fractures of the spine or extramedullary tumors. Nontraumatic cervical herniated disc etiology is rare, with only 31 cases indexed in the literature. Male patient, 23 years old, admitted with numbness in left side and weakness in the right hemisphere, hospitalized for about 35 days. No reports of trauma. On examination: conscious and oriented, right hemiparesis and hemihipoestesia tactile-painful in left side, with sensory and motor level C7. Imaging tests showed a narrow channel of cervical C4-T1, presence of disc herniation extrusa C5-C6 and hyperintense marrow at this level. Underwent cervical discectomy and arthrodesis of C5-C6. Postoperatively evolved with flaccid tetraplegia (level motor/sensory C8). The control examinations showed correct position surgical instruments, lack of disc herniations and maintenance of spinal cord hyperintense. After eight months of rehabilitation and outpatient services remains tetraparesis. To the authors' best knowledge, this is the first description of BSS caused by nontraumatic cervical disc herniation in Brazil, in the indexed literature. In the affected patients, there is a predominance of males, with mean age 45 years, and the C5-C6 intervertebral disc is the most affected. Microdiscectomy and interbody fusion are the most common forms of treatment. After early decompression, there is a good prognosis, with recovery of motor function in most cases.

Abordaje posterolateral extracavitario a la columna torácica y hernia medular transdural idiopática: reporte de caso y revisión de la bibliografía / Posterolateral approach to the thoracic spine and idiopathic transdural medullary hernia: case report and literature review

OBJETIVO: describir la resolución quirúrgica de un caso de hernia medular transdural. Descripción: Paciente de 33 años de edad con antecedentes de historia progresiva de debilidad motora de 6 meses de evolución. Al examen se constató paraparesia asimétrica con anestesia por debajo del dermatoma T8, constituyendo un síndrome de Brown Sequard. En las imágenes de resonancia magnética se observó herniación ventral de la medula espinal a nivel T7-8. INTERVENCIÓN: se realizó abordaje extrapleural posterolateral a la columna torácica. Con técnica microquirúrgica se encontró el defecto dural en la duramadre ventral, y la herniación medular correspondiente en el nivel T7-8. Se encontraron, asimismo, cuerpos osteocartilaginosos en dicho nivel. Se procedió a disecar la interface médula espinal del defecto dural, ampliando el mismo y liberando la médula espinal, sin necesidad de retracción medular por esta vía. Luego de reponer en su correcta posición a la médula se procedió al cierre dural primario con microsutura. CONCLUSIÓN: las hernias medulares transdurales torácicas el abordaje posterolateral extracavitario es una opción válida, permitiendo tener una mejor visión microquirúrgica de la duramadre ventral, con la ventaja de no requerir tracción ni rotación neural como se requiere en el caso de la laminectomía tradicional

OBJECTIVE: to describe the successful surgical repair of idiopathic transdural spinal cord herniation DESCRIPTION: the patient was a 33-year-old female with a 6-month history of progressive motor weakness. Neurologic examination revealed asymmetric paraparesis with anesthesia below the T8 dermatome, consistent with Brown-Séquard Syndrome. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the thoracic spine demonstrated a spinal cord that was displaced and herniated ventrally, with loss of the normal overlying cerebrospinal fluid space between T7 and T8. INTERVENTION: a lateral extra-pleural approach was used to access the thoracic spine. With microsurgery, we identified a defect in the ventral dura, with transdural spinal cord herniation. Osteocartilaginous bodies also were observed. Microsurgical un-tethering of the spinal cord herniation was performed along with primary repair of ventral dural defect. To un-tether the herniation without spinal cord manipulation, an incision was made on one side of the defect; with this maneuver, the diameter of the defect was increased, avoiding any traction on neural structures. Once the herniated spinal cord was freed, the ventral dura was repaired via non-interrupted closure. CONCLUSION: the posterolateral extra-pleural approach is a good option to treat spinal cord herniation in the thoracic spine, providing a better optical corridor to detect ventral dural defects than with a thoracic laminectomy, and avoiding any neural traction or rotation

Brown-Sequard, a restless mind / Brown-Sequard, uma mente inquieta

Brown-Séquard, a remarkable medical personality of the 19 th century, was born in a small island of the Indian Ocean. He travelled over the world exerting his skills: a successful physician, and an innovative researcher, with a very ample range of interests. His favored subject was the nervous system. The spinal cord was studied extensively, with novel and important discoveries on the sensory pathways. He identified cases with spinal cord hemisection, and described the clinical presentation corresponding to a syndrome which bears his name (Brown-Séquard syndrome), for which he is best known among neurologists. Regarding the brain, he proposed nine mental and physical functions (organs) related to dynamically interconnected cell clusters, in harmony with the “ réseau de cellules anastomosées ”, “ activités dynamogeniques et inhibitrices ”, and “ action à distance ” concepts. Finally, he is considered by some as the “father” of endocrinology, due to his studies on glands and their secretions.

Brown-Séquard, notável personalidade médica do século 19, nasceu em uma pequena ilha do Oceano Índico. Viajou pelo mundo exercendo suas habilidades: médico de sucesso e pesquisador ousado, com gama muito extensa de interesses. Seu assunto favorito era o sistema nervoso. A medula foi estudada de modo amplo, com descobertas novas e importantes sobre as vias sensitivas. Identificou casos com hemisseção medular e descreveu o quadro clínico correspondente a uma síndrome que leva seu nome (síndrome de Brown-Séquard), motivo pelo qual é melhor conhecido entre os neurologistas. Considerando o cérebro, propôs nove funções (órgãos) mentais e físicas relacionadas de modo dinâmico a conglomerados celulares, em harmonia com seus conceitos de “ réseau de cellules anastomosées ”, “ activités dynamogeniques et inhibitrices ” e “ action à distance ”. Finalmente, ele é considerado por alguns como “pai” da endocrinologia, devido seus estudos sobre glândulas e suas secreções.

Brown-Séquard, um pesquisador itinerante - De uma pequena ilha do Oceano Índico para o mundo / Brown-Séquard, a wandering researcher - From a small island of the Indian Ocean to the world

Brown-Séquard, pesquisador e médico, foi uma das mais extraordinárias personalidades do século XIX. Nascido em uma pequena ilha no meio do Oceano Índico, viajou pelo mundo exercendo suas habilidades de médico respeitável, além de pesquisador inovador, experimental e clínico. Seus interesses eram amplos, principalmente na área da neurologia. A medula foi estudada durante décadas, dando inicialmente lugar à sua tese de doutorado. Esses estudos levaram à descrição de uma síndrome devida à hemisseção da medula, que traz seu nome e é um dos seus feitos mais conhecidos entre os neurologistas. Outros variados assuntos levaram à produção de grande número de trabalhos, publicados em livros e periódicos reconhecidos.

Brown-Séquard, researcher and physician, was one of the most amazingpersonality of the 19th century. Born in a small island in the middleof the Indian Ocean, he travelled over the world exerting his skills of a reputable physician and an innovative experimental and clinical researcher. His interests were ample, mainly in the neurological area. The spinal cord was studied for many decades, ensuing initially his doctorate thesis. These studies led to a description of a syndrome due to hemisection of the cord, that bear his name, one of his most known feat among neurologists. Other varied subjects led to the production of a large number of works, published in books and renowned journals.

Síndrome de Brown-Séquard por hérnia discal cervical a duplo nível: caso clínico e revisão da literatura / Brown-Séquard syndrome by double level cervical disc herniation: case report and review of the literature / Síndrome de Brown-Séquard por hernia discal cervical en nivel doble: caso clínico y revisión de la literatura

Descrição do caso clínico de um paciente com síndrome de Brown-Séquard por hérnia de disco cervical em duplo nível, 40 anos, do sexo masculino, sem história de patologia prévia da coluna cervical; teve início insidioso de paresia nos membros direitos, associada à diminuição da sensibilidade dolorosa e térmica do hemicorpo esquerdo, após mergulho que ocasionou trauma indireto da coluna cervical. A RM da coluna cervical mostrou hérnias discais paramedianas direitas nos níveis C4-C5 e C5-C6 com compressão da metade direita do cordão medular e hiperintensidade em T2. Foi realizada descompressão por via anterior e artrodese dos níveis afetados. O paciente recuperou-se parcialmente dos déficits neurológicos, após um longo programa de reabilitação funcional. O tratamento cirúrgico e um programa de reabilitação precoce são da maior importância para a recuperação neurológica de paciente com síndrome de Brown-Séquard por hérnia de disco cervical.

This article presents a case in which Brown-Séquard syndrome resulted from a double level cervical disc herniation. A 40-year-old man without previous history of cervical pathology, presented with insidious right arm and leg paresis associated with associated with decreased pain and thermal sensitivity in the left hemibody after diving which caused indirect trauma of the cervical spine. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine showed double level disc herniation in C4-C5 and C5-6 with compression of the right half of spinal cord and hyperintensity in T2-weighted images. After a complete decompression of neural structures, a double level interbody fusion was performed. There was partial recovery of neurological status after a long period of physical therapy. Early surgical intervention and prompt rehabilitation are paramount to achieve neurological recovery in patients with Brown-Séquard syndrome resulting from a cervical disc herniation.

Descripción del caso clínico de un paciente con síndrome de Brown-Séquard por hernia de disco cervical en nivel doble, 40 años, del sexo masculino, sin historial de patología previa de la columna cervical; tuvo inicio insidioso de paresia en los miembros derechos, vinculada con la disminución de la sensibilidad dolorosa y térmica del hemicuerpo izquierdo, después de zambullida que ocasionó traumatismo indirecto de la columna vertebral. La RM de la columna cervical mostró hernias discales paramedianas derechas, en los niveles C4-C5 y C5-C6, con compresión de la mitad derecha del cordón medular e hiperintensidad en T2. Se realizó descompresión por vía anterior y artrodesis de los niveles afectados. El paciente se recuperó, parcialmente, de los déficits neurológicos, después de un programa prolongado de rehabilitación funcional. El tratamiento quirúrgico y un programa de rehabilitación precoz son de máxima importancia para la recuperación neurológica del paciente con síndrome de Brown-Séquard por hernia de disco cervical.

Herniación medular transdural idiopática: informe de dos casos y revisión de la literatura / Idiopathic transdural spinal cord herniation: report of two cases and literature review

Introducción: La herniación medular transdural idiopática es una entidad rara cuyas formas son la postraumática y posquirúrgica; es omitida en la valoración preoperatoria y con frecuencia afecta al segmento torácico. Clínicamente puede causar mielopatía progresiva o síndrome de Brown-Séquard, cuyo diagnóstico se establece por resonancia magnética. La finalidad de informar esta entidad es su dificultad diagnóstica y, por lo tanto, para establecer un manejo óptimo. Casos clínicos: Dos pacientes mal diagnosticados al inicio e intervenidos en otros segmentos del raquis. Finalmente fueron valorados por sospecha clínica de herniación medular transdural idiopática y por exclusión de otras patologías. Se les realizó laminectomía en los niveles afectados, reducción de la hernia medular y colocación de parche sintético en duramadre. Conclusiones: La herniación medular transdural idiopática se ha atribuido a debilidad congénita de la duramadre o duplicación dural ventral con herniación a través de la capa interna debido a la presión continua del líquido cefalorraquídeo que empuja la médula fuera del espacio subdural. Se estima que el diagnóstico preoperatorio se realiza en una tercera parte de los casos, confirmándose con resonancia magnética. El tratamiento quirúrgico se efectúa en pacientes con progresión de los síntomas; los pacientes cuyos síntomas son leves o ausentes se mantienen bajo monitoreo. El tratamiento oportuno puede permitir la recuperación del déficit neurológico, mejorando la afección motora en 80% y la afección sensitiva en 35%.

BACKGROUND: Idiopathic transdural spinal cord herniation (ISCH) is a rare entity with postsurgical and post-trauma forms. ISCH is often omited in the preoperative evaluation. It often affects the thoracic segment and presents clinically as a rare cause of progressive myelopathy or Brown-Séquard syndrome, whose diagnosis is established by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We report on this rare entity due to its difficult diagnosis, making optimal management difficult. CLINICAL CASE: We present the cases of two patients with ISCH who were misdiagnosed and operated on in other spinal segments without reaching an accurate diagnosis. In our institution, patients with clinical suspicion were evaluated by imaging studies in order to rule out other pathologies. Laminectomy was performed on the involved levels, reducing herniation and with the placement of a synthetic spinal patch to the duramater. CONCLUSIONS: ISCH has been attributed to congenital weakness of the duramater or the dural ventral duplication with herniation through the inner layer due to continuous pressure from cerebrospinal fluid that pushes the marrow out of the subdural space. It is estimated that presurgical diagnosis is done only in one third of the cases, confirmed by MRI. Surgery is performed on patients with symptom progression. Surveillance in those patients with mild symptoms is recommended. Treatment may allow recovery of the neurological deficit, improving motor affection in 80% of patients and sensory affection in 35%.

Síndrome de Brown bilateral / Bilateral Brown syndrome

Objetivo: El síndrome de Brown (SB) se caracteriza por restricción activa y pasiva de la elevación en adducción. Puede ser congénito o adquirido, intermitente o permanente, uni o bilateral; este último se presenta en el 10 por ciento de los casos. Nuestro objetivo es describir 9 casos de SB bilateral y revisar la literatura al respecto. Pacientes: se describen características clínicas de 9 casos y se revisa la literatura. Resultados: De los 9 casos, 2 eran de sexo masculino, y 7 de sexo femenino. Edad promedio: 5.7 años. 1 caso intermitente. Los casos publicados en diferentes series son: 13/126 (Brown), 3/8 (Clark y Noel), 7/36 (Waddell ) y 1/30 (Eustis). Entre los casos bilaterales hay alta incidencia de casos familiares. Conclusión: Se confirma que el cuadro es más común en mujeres. 7/9 tenía alineamiento en posición primaria. Todos tenían déficit bilateral de elevación y anisotropía en V. Frente a un caso de SB bilateral es conveniente examinar a los familiares en busca de casos asintomáticos.

Objective: The motility defect known as Brown´s síndrome is characterized by active and passive restriction of elevation in adduction. It may be either congenital or acquired, intermittent or permanent, uni or bilateral. It is bilateral in 10 percent of cases. Our purpose is to report 9 cases with bilateral Brown´s syndrome and review the cases previously published. Patients: 9 cases are described: 2 males and 7 females, average age 5,7 years who had bilateral Brown´s syndrome and review. Results: 9 cases are described: 2 males and 7 females, average age 5,7 years who had bilateral Brown´s syndrome, 1 of them was intermittent. Bilateral cases published are: 13/126 in Brown´s series, 3/28 in Clark and Noel´s, 7/36 in Waddell´s and 1/30 in that of Eustis. Among bilateral cases there is a striking incidence of familial cases. Conclusion: Brown´s statement that the disorder is more common in females than in males is confirmed in our series. It should be noted that 7 out of 9 of these patients had normal alignment in primary gaze. All cases had bilateral elevation deficit and V pattern. In bilateral cases examination of the relatives should be performed in order to detect asymptomatic familial cases.