We have classified cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) into 3 types. The cases with type II and type III comprise wide variety of degree of myelopathy.
The purpose of this study is in special reference to subdivision in type II and type III. 179 cases which had treated by surgery were chosen for study, and were analyzed statistically with a microcomputer. The best standard for the subdivision is to evaluate the motor function of the lower limb, which is divided into two groups according to point system of standards for judgement of CSM created by Japanese Orthopedic Association.
In group A (cases with mild dysfunction) of type II and III, the symptoms are dominant in the upper limbs.
In group B (with severe dysfunction) of type II and III, the symptoms are more severely involved in the upper and lower limbs.
Using our classification, the area of spinal cord lesion and the prognosis in CSM can be presumed and, therefor, we think our classification is useful in clinical understanding of CSM.
