Abstract | OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE: This case report illustrates an uncommon complication from the retroperitoneal exposure of the lumbar spine. The diagnosis and management of a retroperitoneal lymphocele is presented. The lymphocele was treated with intralesional povidone iodine ( Betadine; Purdue-Frederick, Norwalk, CT), which eradicated the lesion and provided symptomatic relief to the patient. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: A young woman developed an iatrogenic, rapidly progressive spondylolisthesis after having undergone three previous lumbar surgeries for radiculopathy at the L5-S1 level. INTERVENTION: A back-front-back approach was used for operative reduction and fusion of the spondylolisthesis. The patient's postoperative course was complicated by a retroperitoneal lymphocele. She presented with symptoms of urinary urgency and incontinence. The lymphocele was successfully treated with repeated drainage and sclerosis with povidone iodine. The patient ultimately developed a solid fusion, and her pain resolved. CONCLUSION: A retroperitoneal lymphocele is an uncommon complication caused by the surgical exposure of the lumbar spine when a ventral approach is used. In this case, it was diagnosed and treated without further surgical intervention.
|
Authors | A D Levi |
Journal | Neurosurgery
(Neurosurgery)
Vol. 45
Issue 3
Pg. 658-60; discussion 660-1
(Sep 1999)
ISSN: 0148-396X [Print] United States |
PMID | 10493389
(Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
|
Chemical References |
- Anti-Infective Agents, Local
- Povidone-Iodine
|
Topics |
- Adult
- Anti-Infective Agents, Local
(administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
- Female
- Humans
- Iatrogenic Disease
- Lumbar Vertebrae
(surgery)
- Lymphocele
(drug therapy, etiology)
- Postoperative Complications
- Povidone-Iodine
(administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
- Retroperitoneal Space
- Spinal Fusion
|