Sectioning of the Filum Terminale in Patients with Chiari Malformation Type 1 Associated with Occult Tethered Cord Syndrome: Literature Review

Abstract Approximately 125 years ago, a group of pathologies now known as Chiari malformations was described for the first time. However, some mechanisms its formation still remain unknown. A bibliographic survey performed through search in PubMed. In 1938, it already theorized that an increase spinal cord tension could be cause malformation type 1 (CM1) tonsillar herniation. 1953, condition anchoring filum terminale to vertebral canal time and would later tethered syndrome (TCS). Some studies have shown is associated with increased cord, this formed basis possible pathophysiological explanation Case series emerged reporting treatment TCS sectioning (SFT) provide clinical improvement patients CM1. new pathological entity when realized picture medullary cone normal position, differing from caudal migration expected TCS. This became occult (OTCS). attempted demonstrate association origin CM1, non-intuitive association, since position contradicts traction source To day, absence randomized control trials limits any conclusions regarding effectiveness SFT