The most dangerous complication of hernia disc is the development of cauda equina syndrome. Cauda equina syndrome - a bundle of nerve roots spinal cord end - starting with the first lumbar segment below. Its name, this bunch has a resemblance to the horse's tail. Cauda equina - a continuation of the nerve roots of the spinal cord, which begins, as already mentioned, with the lumbar segments. These nerves are responsible for the innervation of the lower limbs and pelvic organs (bladder). Cauda equina syndrome occurs; when a large fragment of the nucleus pulpous compress into the spinal canal nerve roots that innervate the pelvic organs. Severe compression of these nerves can cause irreversible disruption of their function. As a result, the patient cannot control urination and defecation, leading to serious problems. Fortunately, cauda equina syndrome is rare. In case of violation of the pelvic organs with herniated disc should be an urgent surgical intervention provided to prevent irreversible damage to neural structures and the development of persistent neurological symptoms.

The causes of cauda equina syndrome symptoms: The most common cause of cauda equina syndrome is herniated disc in the lumbar spine. Herniated disc may be due to excessive load or injury. In addition, with age, degenerative processes are marked in the intervertebral disc and ligament weakening. As the progression of these processes is relatively small load can cause rupture disk. Other causes of cauda equina syndrome: injury and spinal cord tumors; infectious and inflammatory processes of the spinal cord; narrowing of the lumbar vertebrae; severe lower back injury (gunshot wounds, falls, car accident); congenital anomalies; artery venous malformation of spinal cord; hemorrhage in the spinal cord (subarachnoid, subdural, epidural); complications after operations on the lumbar spine; spinal anesthesia.

Cauda equina syndrome symptoms and diagnosis. Manifestation of cauda equina syndrome may be different in intensity and eventually they become stronger. Symptoms of envy on the degree of compression of nerve roots and from what roots are compressed. In addition to herniated disc, the manifestations of cauda equina syndrome occur in conditions such as peripheral nerve pathology (i.e., sciatic, femoral, and other nerves), a syndrome of cerebral cone, spinal cord compression, or compression of nerve inflammation after they came out of the vertebral column, as well as lumbosacral plexus path. Patients with pain in lower back should be alert when the next "iconic" signs: severe pain in his lower back; muscle weakness, numbness or pain in one or both lower limbs; "Saddle anesthesia" - the lack of sensation in the legs, which corresponds to when sitting in the saddle; dysfunction of the bladder (incontinence or urinary retention); constipation; sensory disturbances in the bladder or rectum; sexual disorders; loss of reflexes in the legs. Previous cauda equina syndrome status: recent severe back injury; recent surgery of the lumbar spine; malignant tumors; recent severe infections.

Diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome symptoms: In the diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome is essential: Magnetic resonance imaging - a type of research allows us to obtain cross-sectional images of internal organs with very high accuracy. It is based on human exposure by electromagnetic waves in a strong magnetic field, after which the electromagnetic radiation are recorded. Further, a computer processes it. Myelography - X-ray method for studying spinal cord and its structures. It lies in the fact that the spinal canal is introduced contrast agent, and thereafter an X-ray spine. This method allows determining the presence of intervertebral hernia and other structures that compress the nerve roots.

Treatment of cauda equina syndrome symptoms: Once a diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome and its cause is determined, there is usually urgent surgical intervention carried out. The operation is the removal of symptoms. If you do not intervene in time, there is a risk of permanent paralysis and dysfunction of the bladder and rectum. When an "iconic" symptoms should immediately contact a neurosurgeon. In these cases, the best method of treatment is urgent surgical intervention. Treatment within the first 48 hours after the start of the syndrome is a considerable advantage in the elimination of symptoms worsening of sensitivity and motor functions, and functions of the bladder and rectum. In addition, even if the operation is performed in 48 hours after the onset of the disease can note the improvement.