Prognostic and risk factors for the surgical efficacy of central spinal cord syndrome in patients with preexisting degenerative cervical spinal cord compression

To analyze the prognostic and risk factors related to surgical treatment of central spinal cord syndrome (CSS) and to find out the optimal timing of operative management.From January 2011 to January 2019, a consecutive series of 128 patients with CSS confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were retrospectively analyzed including their clinical records and radiologic data from a prospectively maintained database in a single center.According to the prognosis evaluated by the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA), American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) motor score (AMS), and ASIA impairment scale (AIS) grade, the overall postoperative outcome was good. Finally, it was found that surgical timing, presence of myelopathy or not at baseline, AMS at admission, and compression ratio were independent factors affecting the prognosis. Surgery as soon as possible after the occurrence of CSS is still advocated.Cervical myelopathy at baseline, compression ratio, and AMS score on admission were independent prognostic factors for the surgical treatment of CSS. If surgical indications are clear, early surgical intervention should be actively considered.