DEVELOPMENT OF POSTTRAUMATIC CYSTS IN THE SPINAL-CORD OF RATS SUBJECTED TO SEVERE SPINAL-CORD CONTUSION

To study the development of post-traumatic spinal cord (SC) cysts, and their fine anatomic characteristics, rats were subjected to severe SC contusion. Specimens were analyzed from day 1 to 1 year post-injury. Using conventional light, and transmission and scanning electron micro scopy, three stages were typified, namely: necrosis, repair, and stabi lity. The final cell composition and thickness of the cyst walls were not uniform. Astrocytes, fibroblasts, ependymal cells, and collagen fi bers were the main constituents. Chronic inflammatory cells were also observed. The neuropathologic characterization of post-traumatic SC cy sts could be useful in planning strategies for SC reconstruction at di fferent times post-injury.