Abstract
Introduction
Intradural extramedullary tumors (IDEMTs) are uncommon lesions causing pain and neurological deficits. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of surgery for IDEMTs analyzing a sample of 107 patients.
Materials and Methods
Cohort study recruiting all the patients operated for IDEMTs at the Department of Neurology and Psychiatry of “Sapienza” University, Rome, from January 2003 to January 2013. The analysis was conducted on the evaluation of clinical records over a 1-year follow-up. The graphic rating scale (GRS) was used for the assessment of pain. Neurological deficits were detected though neurological examination. The quality of life was evaluated with the EuroQol (EQ-5D). Statistical interpretation of the data was performed using SPSS v19 software (SPSS Inc, Chicago, Illinois, United States).
Results
A total of 107 patients were recruited. Three were lost to follow-up. Patients reported lower level of pain 1 year after surgery (presurgery = 6.05, postsurgery = 3.65). Mean comparison shows a significant decrease in Δ = −2.400 (p < 0.001). A total of 92 patients (88.5%) were neurologically asymptomatic 1 year after surgery. Only 12 (11.5%) presented with a deficit, with a global decrease of 39% (chi-square 27.6, p < 0.005). The quality of life in patients operated for IDETMs was middle high (mean rating EQ-5D VAS 61.78%). The lowest levels of quality of life were found in patients with sphincter dysfunctions (mean = 33.4).
Conclusion
Surgery of IDEMTs has a good outcome. Patients reported lower levels of pain and a drastic reduction in neurological symptoms 1 year after surgery. The quality of life on an average is middle high. It is influenced mainly by the neurological outcome.