MRI changes of the spinal subdural space after lumbar spine surgeries: report of two cases
Toshinori Sakai1, Koichi Sairyo, Nitin N Bhatia
1Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan.
Abstract:
Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is frequently used to assess the lumbar spine, there are few reports in the medical literature that have evaluated using MRI immediately following spinal surgery. Furthermore, descriptions of the subdural changes after lumbar spine surgery are also infrequent. In this paper, we present two cases with subdural change seen on MRI immediately after lumbar surgery. Both the patients had mild symptoms that resolved spontaneously, and the follow-up MRI scans showed resolution of the subdural changes. Subdural changes should be considered as one of the possible causes of unexpected symptoms in patients following lumbar spinal surgery.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can detect subdural changes after lumbar spine surgery. These changes often present with mild symptoms that resolve spontaneously, as seen in two patient cases.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
- Spinal Imaging
Background:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a common tool for evaluating the lumbar spine.
- Limited research exists on immediate post-operative MRI findings after spinal surgery.
- Subdural changes following lumbar spine surgery are infrequently reported.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on subdural changes observed on immediate post-operative MRI after lumbar spine surgery.
- To highlight the occurrence and characteristics of subdural changes in the early post-surgical period.
Main Methods:
- Case report presentation of two patients.
- Utilized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for immediate post-operative assessment.
- Follow-up MRI scans were performed to monitor changes.
Main Results:
- Two cases demonstrated subdural changes on MRI immediately after lumbar spine surgery.
- Patients experienced mild, self-resolving symptoms.
- Follow-up MRI scans confirmed the resolution of subdural changes.
Conclusions:
- Subdural changes are a potential finding on immediate post-operative lumbar spine MRI.
- Consideration of subdural changes is important for diagnosing unexpected symptoms after surgery.
- These changes appear to be transient and often resolve without intervention.
