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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
04:06
Minimally Invasive Surgical Decompression of Occipital Nerves
Published on: September 13, 2024
Neck procedures resulting in Horner syndrome
1Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery, Albany Medical Center, Lions Eye Institute, Albany, New York 12159, USA. allena@mail.amc.edu
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|March 11, 2009
Summary
Neck procedures can cause Horner syndrome (a condition affecting the eye and face). Awareness of prior neck surgeries is crucial for diagnosing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Horner syndrome results from sympathetic nerve damage.
- Iatrogenic causes are increasingly recognized.
Observation:
- This study reviewed six cases of Horner syndrome linked to neck interventions.
- Patients included 5 women and 1 man, aged 37-79.
- Procedures ranged from cardiac surgery to cervical spine fusion.
Findings:
- Neck surgeries, including carotid endarterectomy, sympathectomy, parathyroid surgery, and cervical spine fusion, were associated with Horner syndrome.
- Even seemingly minor neck procedures can precipitate this neurological complication.
Implications:
- Clinicians must consider iatrogenic Horner syndrome in patients with a history of neck procedures.
- Thorough patient history, including surgical interventions, is vital for accurate diagnosis and management.
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