The spinal cord central canal: response to experimental hydrocephalus and canal occlusion

Abstract

✓ The central canal of the spinal cord was studied with canal occlusion alone, and in experimental (kaolin) hydrocephalus without and with central canal occlusion. Massive dilatation of the canal occurred with kaolin hydrocephalus. Syrinxes extending into the gray and white matter of the cord and communicating with the central canal developed in both the upper and lower spinal cord. The completely isolated central canal (occlusion at the obex and filum terminale) did not dilate, but remained patent. Canal occlusion at the obex and filum terminale completely protected the spinal cord from central canal dilatation or syrinxes in kaolin hydrocephalus. These findings suggest that the choroid plexus is responsible for producing neural tube dilatation in hydrocephalus. It also supports the concept that syringomyelia results from inadequate drainage of cerebrospinal fluid and increased pressure (or pulse pressure) in the spinal cord central canal.