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Painful sciatic neuropathy following cardiac surgery
1Department of Neurology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Vic. Australia.
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Medicine
|October 1, 1991
Summary
Cardiac surgery can cause rare nerve damage, specifically bilateral sciatic nerve lesions, leading to leg weakness and pain. This neurological dysfunction is linked to patient positioning during surgery and post-operative care.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Cardiology
Background:
- Peripheral nerve injuries can occur post-cardiac surgery.
- The specific pattern of bilateral proximal sciatic nerve lesions is not well-documented.
Observation:
- Ten patients experienced sensori-motor deficits and causalgic pain in lower limbs post-cardiac surgery.
- Clinical and electrophysiological findings suggested bilateral proximal sciatic nerve damage.
Findings:
- The observed neurological dysfunction points to bilateral proximal sciatic nerve lesions.
- Distinguishing from diffuse ischemic axonopathy was challenging in some cases.
- The condition is likely associated with intra-operative patient positioning and post-operative posture.
Implications:
- Highlights the susceptibility of peripheral nerves to pressure palsy during cardiac procedures.
- Suggests a need to review patient positioning and post-operative care protocols.
- Informs clinicians about a rare but significant neurological complication of cardiac surgery.