Surgical Management of Thoracic Spinal Extradural Arachnoid Cysts: A Case Report

Spinal extradural arachnoid cysts (SEACs) are exceptionally rare and require advanced imaging for an accurate diagnosis and surgical planning. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography myelography play a pivotal role in delineating cyst characteristics and guiding effective interventions. Laminectomy, coupled with laminoplasty, has emerged as a strategic approach to decompress the spinal cord while preserving spinal alignment. This technique mitigates the risk of postoperative complications and facilitates reoperations if recurrence takes place. The integration of a detailed radiological assessment with meticulous surgical planning is crucial for managing SEACs and optimizing outcomes. This paper presents a case of a 33-year-old man with multiple SEACs at the thoracic level who was successfully treated with a surgical intervention, exemplifying the discussed approach.