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Sacral epidural abscess complicating closed sacral fracture: a case report.
1Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Chai Wan, Hong Kong. c3sy_chiu@yahoo.com
Spine
|April 20, 2004
Summary
This case report details a rare sacral epidural abscess following a sacral fracture. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing this serious spinal infection.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Surgery
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Epidural abscesses typically manifest with severe back pain and neurological decline.
- Spinal fractures are a known risk factor for developing epidural abscesses.
- This case represents the first reported instance of an epidural abscess secondary to a sacral fracture.
Observation:
- A patient with a sacral fracture experienced bilateral S2, S3 dermatome numbness.
- The patient developed fever, bacteremia, and a urinary tract infection, with partial response to antibiotics.
- Surgical intervention was indicated for decompression.
Findings:
- Sacral laminectomy revealed an unexpected sacral epidural abscess.
- Decompression of sacral nerve roots was performed.
- The epidural abscess was successfully drained.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for rare epidural abscess localization after sacral fractures.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering spinal infection in patients with sacral fractures and neurological deficits.
- Underscores the need for prompt surgical management in such cases.