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Lumbar spinal subdural hematoma following craniotomy--case report
S Shimizu1, S Tachibana, H Maezawa
1Department of Neurosurgery, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa.
Neurologia Medico-Chirurgica
|June 8, 1999
Summary
A rare complication of cranial surgery, lumbar spinal subdural hematoma (SSH) can occur. This case highlights a potential gravity-induced blood flow from the brain to the spine, causing neurological symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Spinal subdural hematoma (SSH) is a rare complication following cranial surgery.
- Patients may present with symptoms mimicking cauda equina syndrome.
Observation:
- A 52-year-old female developed lumbago and lower extremity weakness 6 days post-craniotomy.
- Symptoms resolved spontaneously within 3 days.
- Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a lumbar spinal subdural hematoma.
Findings:
- The spinal subdural hematoma was likely caused by the gravitational descent of blood from the cranial subdural space.
- No pre-existing bleeding risk factors were identified in the patient.
- The subacute nature of the hematoma suggested delayed formation.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider lumbar SSH in patients with neurological deficits after craniotomy.
- Early recognition and diagnosis are crucial for appropriate management.
- This case underscores the importance of considering atypical complications in postoperative neurosurgical patients.