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Postoperative sudden sensorineural hearing loss after posterior lumbar decompression: a case report
1Department of Anesthesia, Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, 399 Bathurst Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 2S8, Canada. peter.mak@uhn.on.ca
Summary
A patient developed persistent unilateral sensorineural hearing loss after spinal surgery complicated by a dural tear. This rare complication following posterior lumbar decompression surgery requires further investigation into its causes and management.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Otolaryngology
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Spinal surgery, particularly posterior lumbar decompression, carries potential risks.
- Dural tears are a known complication during spinal procedures.
- Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a rare but significant post-operative complication.
Observation:
- A 51-year-old male patient with no prior ear issues experienced SNHL in the right ear after an 8-hour posterior lumbar decompression surgery.
- The surgery involved a small, repaired dural tear and significant blood loss (>3 L).
- The SNHL was accompanied by mild tinnitus, with no vertigo, ear fullness, or pain.
Findings:
- Post-operative SNHL developed shortly after general anesthesia and spinal surgery.
- Despite extensive otolaryngological evaluation and treatment over 18 months, the hearing loss persisted.
- No clear cause was identified, highlighting the complexity of this rare complication.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing and investigating sudden SNHL after spinal surgery.
- Understanding the potential link between dural tears, surgical stress, and SNHL is crucial.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the pathophysiology and develop effective preventive and therapeutic strategies for this rare complication.