Abstract. Background: Pneumorrhachis (PR) means the presence of air in the spinal canal; it is an exceptional, but important radiographic finding, which may be associated with different aetiologies and pathways of air entry into the spinal canal.

What is pneumorrhachis?

Pneumorrhachis (PR), the phenomenon of intraspinal air, is an exceptional imaging finding, caused by various, mainly traumatic and iatrogenic aetiologies. It is associated with different pathologies and possible pathways of air entry into the spinal canal.

What causes pneumorrhachis?

Pneumorrhachis is a rare clinical condition, consisting of intraspinal air. The main causes are iatrogenic, traumatic, and nontraumatic. Spontaneous mediastinum is usually associated with subcutaneous emphysema and, occasionally, with pneumothorax; however, its association with pneumorrhachis is extremely rare.