Contiguous T12-L1 Recapping Laminoplasty for Myxopapillary Ependymoma at the Conus Medullaris: A Case Report.

CASE: A 42-year-old woman presented with bilateral lower-extremity numbness and had a 41-mm ventral intradural extramedullary myxopapillary ependymoma at T12-L1. Contiguous T12-L1 recapping laminoplasty was performed using a T-saw, with T12 osteotomy directed toward the transverse process and L1 pedicle transection. The tumor was removed en bloc with the capsule intact. The posterior elements were reconstructed by T12 suturing and L1 pedicle screw fixation. No neurological deterioration occurred. At 3 years, no recurrence was observed.

CONCLUSION: This technique provides wide thoracolumbar exposure while preserving and reconstructing posterior elements, facilitating safe en bloc resection at the thoracolumbar junction.