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Thoracic epidural hematoma after spinal manipulation therapy.
Journal of Spinal Disorders
|December 22, 1999
Summary
Posttraumatic spinal epidural hematoma is rare. This case details a thoracic epidural hematoma after spinal manipulation therapy (SMT), highlighting a rare complication of chiropractic care.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Posttraumatic spinal epidural hematoma (SEH) is an uncommon condition.
- Spinal manipulation therapy (SMT) involves manual therapy techniques applied to the spine.
Observation:
- A 64-year-old woman developed a thoracic epidural hematoma during a spinal manipulation therapy session.
- This represents a rare occurrence, with only two previous reports in the literature.
- This is the first reported case of SEH following chiropractic manipulation in the lumbar region.
Findings:
- Surgical evacuation of the spinal hematoma led to complete recovery for the patient.
- The study reviews complications associated with SMT.
- The etiology and characteristics of spinal epidural hematoma are discussed.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential, albeit rare, risks associated with spinal manipulation therapy.
- It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and promptly treating spinal epidural hematoma.
- Further research into the mechanisms and prevention of SMT-induced SEH may be warranted.