Abnormal Conus Terminalis Morphology C4732765
This describes an abnormal shape or structure of the conus terminalis, the end of the spinal cord. It is typically a congenital condition discovered through imaging. Management depends on associated symptoms and may involve monitoring or surgical consultation.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- G43.909
- ICD-11
- 8A00.0
- Body system
- neurologic
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Bladder dysfunction
Difficulty urinating, weak stream, or feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
Seek immediate care if unable to urinate for more than 8 hours or have severe bladder distension, as this can cause kidney damage.
Lower extremity weakness
(neurologic)Muscle weakness affecting one or both legs, making it difficult to walk or climb stairs.
Frequency: 70-80% of patients
Saddle anesthesia
(neurologic)Numbness or reduced sensation in the perineal area, buttocks, and inner thighs.
Frequency: 65-75% of patients
Lower back pain
(neurologic)Dull or sharp pain in the lower back that may radiate to the legs.
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Bowel dysfunction
(gastrointestinal)Difficulty with bowel movements, including constipation or fecal incontinence.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Lower extremity numbness
(neurologic)Tingling, pins-and-needles sensation, or loss of feeling in the legs or feet.
Frequency: 45-55% of patients
Gait disturbance
(neurologic)Unsteady walking, difficulty with balance, or shuffling gait.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Lower limb spasticity
(neurologic)Muscle stiffness or involuntary muscle spasms in the legs.
Frequency: 15-25% of patients
Sexual dysfunction
(genitourinary)Erectile dysfunction in males or reduced genital sensation.
Frequency: 10-20% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Exercise prescription and weight management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Spinal cord detethering surgery
Surgical release of tethered spinal cord when neurological symptoms are progressive or severe. The procedure involves freeing the conus medullaris from surrounding structures to prevent further neurological deterioration.
Serial neurological imaging
Regular MRI monitoring of conus terminalis morphology and neurological function through clinical examination. Imaging schedule typically ranges from 6-12 month intervals depending on baseline severity.
Additional treatment options
Pelvic floor and spinal rehabilitation
Specialized physical therapy focusing on core stability, pelvic floor strengthening, and postural education to support spinal health and manage associated symptoms.
physical_therapyNeuropathic pain management
Pharmacological management of neuropathic pain symptoms using appropriate medications with regular reassessment of efficacy and side effects.
medicationActivity modification and ergonomics
Education on avoiding activities that increase spinal tension such as heavy lifting, excessive forward bending, and high-impact exercises. Implementation of ergonomic principles in daily activities.
lifestyleWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Abnormal Conus Terminalis Morphology C4732765?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
American Academy of Neurology. Practice parameter: the management of tethered cord syndrome. Neurology. 2001;56(8):1006-1018.
Parker SE, Mai CT, Canfield MA, et al. Updated National Birth Prevalence estimates for selected birth defects in the United States, 2004-2006. Birth Defects Research Part A: Clinical and Molecular Teratology. 2010;88(12):1008-1016.
Rowland LP, Pedley TA, editors. Merritt's Neurology. 12th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2010.
Hersh DS, Bonfield CM, Ryklin JB, et al. Surgical outcomes in tethered cord syndrome: a prospective analysis. Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics. 2018;21(3):271-278.
Congress of Neurological Surgeons. Guidelines for the management of tethered cord syndrome in children. Neurosurgery. 2020;86(2):E1-E10.
Koh J, Taimoor S, Farnand R, et al. Surgical outcomes in pediatric tethered cord syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Child's Nervous System. 2019;35(8):1297-1308.
Warder DE. Tethered cord syndrome and occult spinal dysraphism. Neurosurgical Focus. 2001;10(1):1-9.
International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Neurosurgery. Consensus statement on the management of spinal cord tethering. Child's Nervous System. 2021;37(5):1495-1505.
Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine. Prenatal screening for open neural tube defects. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2019;221(4):B1-B3.
Pang D, Zovickian J, Lee JY. Anatomy and development of the conus medullaris and filum terminalis. Neurosurgery Clinics of North America. 2017;28(4):483-501.
Medication Comparisons
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View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy