Cauda equina syndrome caused by intervertebral lumbar disk prolapse: mid-term results of 22 patients and literature review.

This retrospective study analyzes the mid-term results of 22 patients who underwent diskectomy following a diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome due to prolapsed intervertebral lumbar disks (mean follow-up: 3 years and 9 months). Postoperatively, 17 of 22 patients had complete urinary function recovery within the follow-up period, 4 patients had a persistent stress incontinence, and 1 patient, incontinent 4 years postoperatively, required catheterization. Thirteen of 17 patients had recovery of motor deficits, 14 of 21 of sensory deficits, and 13 of 15 patients regained perianal sensation. There was no statistically significant difference concerning the time between onset of symptoms and surgical decompression and subsequent outcome. Complete evaluation must include imaging and urodynamic investigations. After an accurate diagnosis and adequate operative treatment, postoperative results of cauda equina syndrome appear satisfactory.