Experimental split cord malformations.

OBJECTIVE

To induce experimental split cord malformations (SCMs) produced through the surgical induction of a dorsal midline fistula.

METHODS

In addition, the theory of embryogenesis of SCMs was verified by examining the developmental process of this experimentally induced anomaly. In Cynopus pyrrhogaster (amphibian) embryos (stage 18), the neural plate and notochord were split regionally to construct a fistula that appeared to be the ectopic neurenteric canal. Following this procedure, the embryonic development was traced morphologically and histologically.

RESULTS

Following the incubation and breeding period, split cord malformation was observed in some animals. Scoliosis, spina bifida, vertebral anomaly and subcutaneous manifestations were also observed with SCMs.

CONCLUSIONS

The observations made in these experimentally induced SCMs are consistent with the findings in human SCMs. We report an experimental animal model of split cord malformation, in which double spinal cords were developed in the spinal canal. In addition, we examined the embryogenesis of SCMs. This study indicates that SCMs may arise through a process of dorsal midline fistula of the neural plate.