Adynamic ileus complicating lumbar laminectomy: a report of two cases

Adynamic ileus is a well recognized complication of spinal injuries and disease. We report two cases of adynamic ileus affecting both small and large bowel following uncomplicated L4/5 laminectomy. Both patients recovered with conservative treatment, but their hospital stay was prolonged. We have found three other cases in the literature of ileus affecting only the colon following laminectomy at this same level.