Therapeutic Strategies and Prognostic Factors Based on 121 Spinal Neurenteric Cysts

Abstract

BACKGROUND Limited data existed to guide the management of intraspinal neurenteric cysts (ISNECs). OBJECTIVE To evaluate the risk factors for progression-free survival (PFS), elucidate the radiological features of ISNECs, and propose a treatment protocol. METHODS From 2003 to 2015, 121 patients with pathologically confirmed ISNECs treated at our institute were included in this study. Pertinent risk factors were evaluated. RESULTS Gross total resection (GTR) was achieved in 55 (44.6%) patients; 106 (87.6%), 12 (9.9%), and 3 (2.5%) ISNECs were classified as Wilkins A, B, and C, respectively. After a median follow-up duration of 64.2 mo, recurrence occurred in 25 (22.7%) patients, with a median PFS time of 43.1 mo. The actuarial PFS rates at 5 and 10 yr were 73.2% and 66.2%, respectively. The actuarial overall survival rates at 5 and 10 yr were 100% and 97.6%, respectively. Non-GTR (hazard ratio [HR], 5.836; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.698-20.058; P = .005), Wilkins B/C (HR, 3.129; 95% CI, 1.009-9.702; P = .048), and a history of surgical resection (HR, 3.690; 95% CI, 1.536-8.864; P = .004) were adverse factors. CONCLUSION GTR and Wilkins A were favorable factors for PFS. If tolerable, GTR alone was advocated as an optimal treatment. Because of the benign nature and favorable prognosis, non-GTR was an alternative if GTR failed. Close follow-up was needed because of the recurrent tendency of ISNEC. Future study with a large cohort is necessary to verify our findings.

Neurenteric Cyst: Case Report and Operative Video

“…In a case series of 23 patients, partial excision had higher recurrence rates but shared similar clinical outcomes due to the benign nature and favorable prognosis of this entity [2]. In a series of 121 spinal neurenteric cysts, gross total resection was possible in 44.6%, recurrence occurred in 22.7%, and progression free survival rate at 10 years was 66.2% [8]. Ultimately, surgical intervention allows for resolution of neurological symptoms, and though gross total resection may be desired, subtotal resection allows for similar outcomes.…”