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[Small bowel perforation following microsurgical diskectomy of lumbar disk prolapse]

Stine Hollegaard1, Søren Salomon, Niels Qvist

  • 1Kirurgisk Afdeling A, Odense Universitetshospital, DK-5000 Odense. salomon@dadlnet.dk

Ugeskrift for Laeger
|January 30, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Intraabdominal lesions are rare complications after microsurgical discectomy. Prompt abdominal CT scans are crucial for diagnosing and managing these potentially life-threatening conditions, such as ileal perforation.

Area of Science:

  • Neurosurgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Complications

Background:

  • Microsurgical discectomy is a common procedure for lumbar disc herniation.
  • Intraabdominal lesions are a rare but serious complication following spinal surgery.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for patient outcomes.

Observation:

  • A 47-year-old male presented with abdominal pain post-discectomy.
  • Abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed intraperitoneal free air.
  • Laparotomy confirmed a perforation of the ileum.

Findings:

  • The patient underwent ileal resection and primary anastomosis.
  • The case highlights a rare but severe complication of microsurgical discectomy.
  • Timely diagnosis via CT scan is essential.

Implications:

  • Patients with post-discectomy abdominal pain require urgent evaluation for intraabdominal injury.
  • Abdominal CT is the recommended diagnostic modality.
  • This case underscores the importance of considering visceral injury in the differential diagnosis of post-operative abdominal pain.

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