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Repeated meningitis as a delayed complication of scoliosis surgery

Leodante B da Costa1, Henry Ahn, Walter Montanera

  • 1Division of Neurosurgery, Saint Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. leodante@gmail.com

Journal of Spinal Disorders & Techniques
|June 1, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Delayed meningitis, a rare complication of scoliosis surgery, can occur years later. This case highlights the importance of considering meningitis in patients with spinal instrumentation who develop recurrent infections, even without typical wound symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Neurosurgery
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Spinal Surgery

Background:

  • Delayed infections post-spine surgery are known, but meningitis is uncommon.
  • Recurrent meningitis after scoliosis surgical treatment is unprecedented.

Observation:

  • A 44-year-old male developed recurrent meningitis years after scoliosis surgery.
  • Imaging revealed an infected bone cyst communicating with the intradural space.
  • Symptoms included recurrent meningitis without typical wound infection signs.

Findings:

  • Surgical intervention to close the dural defect and debride the cyst was performed.
  • The patient recovered well with antibiotic therapy, remaining meningitis-free for 1 year.
  • Diagnosis can be challenging without overt wound symptoms.

Implications:

  • This case underscores that meningitis can be a very late complication of spinal instrumentation for scoliosis.
  • A high index of suspicion is crucial for diagnosing delayed meningitis in these patients.
  • Early recognition and appropriate management are vital for favorable outcomes.

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