Learn about Diastematomyelia Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Diastematomyelia and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Diastematomyelia

Diastematomyelia is a complex neurosurgical procedure performed to correct a rare congenital spinal cord abnormality where the spinal cord is split into two halves by a bony, cartilaginous, or fibrous septum. This condition, often present from birth, can cause progressive neurological deficits, pain, and spinal deformities like scoliosis. The surgery involves a delicate laminectomy (removal of part of the vertebrae) to access the spinal canal, followed by the meticulous removal of the dividing septum to untether and reunify the spinal cord. The primary goals are to relieve compression on the spinal cord, prevent further neurological deterioration, and stabilize the spine. This highly specialized procedure requires advanced imaging and microsurgical techniques to ensure safety and maximize functional outcomes for the patient.

Key Highlights

    Addresses the root cause of spinal cord tethering and compression.Aims to halt the progression of neurological symptoms like weakness, numbness, or pain.Can prevent worsening of associated spinal deformities such as scoliosis.Performed using advanced microsurgical and intraoperative monitoring techniques for precision.Offers the potential for improved neurological function and quality of life.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Progressive neurological deficits, including leg weakness, muscle atrophy, or sensory loss.
  • Intractable back or leg pain directly attributable to the diastematomyelia.
  • Clinical or radiological evidence of a tethered spinal cord.
  • Worsening scoliosis or other spinal deformity linked to the cord abnormality.
  • Bladder or bowel dysfunction (neurogenic bladder/bowel) caused by cord involvement.
  • Preventive surgery in a child with a known septum to avoid future neurological damage.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive neurological examination to document baseline function.
  • Advanced spinal imaging (MRI, CT myelogram) to precisely map the septum and anatomy.
  • Pre-operative counseling with the neurosurgeon to discuss goals, risks, and expectations.
  • Routine pre-surgical tests: blood work, ECG, and chest X-ray as needed.
  • Fasting for 6-8 hours before the surgery as instructed.
  • Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) under doctor's guidance.

Risks & possible complications

  • General surgical risks: infection, bleeding, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which may require additional treatment.
  • Injury to the spinal cord or nerve roots, potentially leading to worsened neurological function.
  • Formation of scar tissue (arachnoiditis) which could re-tether the cord.
  • Incomplete removal of the septum or recurrence of symptoms.
  • Risks associated with spinal instrumentation if fusion is required for stability.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial hospital stay for monitoring neurological status and pain management.
  • Mobilization with assistance, often starting within 1-2 days post-surgery.
  • Wound care instructions to keep the incision site clean and dry.
  • Activity restrictions: avoiding heavy lifting, bending, or twisting for several weeks.
  • Physical therapy to regain strength, mobility, and proper body mechanics.
  • Regular follow-up appointments for neurological assessment and imaging to monitor healing.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 5-7 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 6-12 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering diastematomyelia in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for diastematomyelia compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 2,629 – USD 6,309 5-7 days ~ 6-12 weeks Know More
Turkey USD 19,045 – USD 45,707 5-7 days ~ 6-12 weeks Know More

Top hospitals for Diastematomyelia in Turkey

These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated neurosurgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing diastematomyelia.

Liv Hospital Ankara

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon140 Doctors

Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon38 Doctors
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Neurosurgeons for Diastematomyelia

Explore experienced neurosurgeons who regularly perform diastematomyelia and provide pre- and post-operative care in Turkey.

Dr. Gökhan Akdemir - Neurosurgeon at Liv Hospital Ankara with 30 years experience
  • 30 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

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Dr. Erhan Arslan - Neurosurgeon at Liv Hospital Ankara with 21 years experience
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

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Dr. Akın Akakın - Neurosurgeon at Liv Hospital Ankara with 24 years experience
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

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Dr. Hakan Kına - Neurosurgeon at Liv Hospital Ankara with 14 years experience
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

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Dr. Baran Yilmaz - Neurosurgeon at Liv Hospital Ankara with 21 years experience
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

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Dr. Tuncay Kaner - Neurosurgeon at Liv Hospital Ankara with 30 years experience
  • 30 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish

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Dr. Çağatay Çalıkoğlu - Neurosurgeon at Liv Hospital Ankara with 23 years experience
  • 23 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish

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Dr. Savaş Ceylan - Neurosurgeon at Liv Hospital Ankara with 37 years experience
  • 37 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish

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Dr. Gökhan Akdemir - Neurosurgeon at Liv Hospital Ankara with 30 years experience
  • 30 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish

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Dr. Erhan Arslan - Neurosurgeon at Liv Hospital Ankara with 21 years experience
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Neurosurgeon
Speaks: English, Turkish

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

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