Intradural disc herniation: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Intradural disc herniation (IDH) is a rare pathology. Intradural disc herniations comprise 0.26-0.30% of all herniated discs. The preoperative knowledge of an intradural herniation is important because it has an influence on the operative strategy. A 55-year-old man suffered from decrease in the motor function of the lower extremities and urinary incontinence. Noncontrast MRI exam showed the intradural disc with caudal migration of an excluded fragment at the L3-4 level. At surgery, the L3 and L4 laminas were removed and after dura had been openned, a nucleus pulposus was seen which compressed the conus medullaris to the right and left of the spinal canal. Every neurosurgeuon involved in spinal surgery must be aware of this rare patology which, when overseen during the intervention, could have disastrous consequences for the patient.