Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 28, 2026
Intraoperative Ultrasound in Spinal Surgery
Published on: August 17, 2022
Inferior vena cava tear during posterior spinal fusion surgery
Yu-Ren Wang1, Yen-Chin Liu, Nien-Chun Chung
1Department of Anesthesiology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Abstract:
Inferior vena cava tear is a rare but potentially lethal event associated with spinal surgery. Early recognition and repair are mandatory to minimize morbidity and mortality. Here we report a case of inferior vena cava tear which occurred during posterior spinal fusion surgery. Without marked bleeding from the surgical field, the patient was suddenly seized with a profound shock. Abdominal distension was found after resumption of the supine position from prone. Emergent exploratory laparotomy disclosed inferior vena cava tear. After repairing of the torn vessel, the patient was transferred to ICU. Unfortunately, patient expired two weeks later due to multiple-organ failure.
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