NEUROSURGICAL TREATMENT OF COMPRESSION OF THE SPINAL CORD CAUSED BY MYELOMA

Our interest in neurosurgical treatment of compression of the spinal cord caused by myeloma was stimulated by the observation of three such cases within a relatively short time. Laminectomy, decompression, and partial removal of the compressing myeloma were done in each instance. Gratifying clinical results were obtained in two of these cases despite the presence of extensive disease and great loss of function prior to operation; therefore, it was thought that a review of experience with this condition at the Mayo Clinic would call attention to the possible value of palliative operations.

REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Cases of myelomatous compression of the spinal cord in which relief was obtained by laminectomy and decompression, with or without subsequent roentgen therapy, have been reported. Jacox and Kahn¹reviewed the literature and found three instances in which laminectomy and decompression had been performed. Klemme²reported his experience in five cases; in