Transient meralgia paresthetica after pediatric posterior spine fusion

Meralgia paresthetica (MP) rarely occurs during posterior spine surgery. The study goal was to examine risk factors associated with the incidence of MP. A review of 56 consecutive pediatric patients undergoing posterior spine fusion for scoliosis was performed. Patients with abnormal sensation in the lateral thigh preoperatively and prior spine surgery were excluded. All patients were positioned prone on the Jackson (Orthopaedic Systems, Inc., Union City, CA) spinal table with either (1) the lower leg support table and thigh supports or (2) the lower leg suspension sling. Data on patient weight, diagnosis, surgeon, duration of surgery, presence of MP, symptoms, and symptom duration were collected. A logistic regression analysis was performed between independent variables and presence of MP. There were 10/56 patients with MP (18%). Symptoms were anterolateral thigh numbness without pain or weakness. Symptoms in all cases were resolved, on average, before the 6-week postoperative visit (range 2-24 weeks). Patients with MP more often had idiopathic scoliosis (28% vs 7%; P < 0.05) were positioned with the lower leg sling instead of the flat table support (31% vs 13%; P < 0.05) and trended toward longer surgery times (451 vs 388 minutes; NS). Abnormal body mass index, age at surgery, surgeon, and sex did not correlate to MP. MP can occur after pediatric posterior spine surgery. Symptoms were minor, temporary, and did not require treatment. Shorter surgical times and use of thigh pads in conjunction with the lower leg support table may decrease the incidence of MP.