Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026
12:10
Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Published on: May 19, 2022
Postoperative lower limb paralysis due to retractors.
M Mizoguchi1, K Tanaka, M Narita
1Department of Anesthesiology, Nagano Komoro Kousei General Hospital, 3-2-31 Yora-machi, 384, Komoro, Japan.
Journal of Anesthesia
|July 11, 2013
Summary
Surgical retractors can cause femoral neuropathy, a condition affecting the femoral nerve. This case highlights the importance of considering this nerve injury in postoperative lower limb paralysis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Surgical Complications
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Femoral neuropathy is a rare complication following surgical procedures.
- Lower limb paralysis after surgery necessitates a thorough differential diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of femoral neuropathy secondary to surgical retractor use.
- To emphasize the diagnostic considerations for postoperative femoral nerve deficits.
Main Methods:
- A case study of a 74-year-old woman undergoing right hemicolectomy.
- Neurological examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed postoperatively.
- Anesthesia details included nitrous oxide, sevoflurane, oxygen, and extradural anesthesia.
Main Results:
- The patient developed symptoms consistent with femoral neuropathy after surgery.
- MRI findings were normal, and the straight leg raising test was negative.
- Complete recovery from neurological symptoms occurred within 2 months.
Conclusions:
- Large-bladed self-retaining retractors can exert pressure leading to femoral neuropathy.
- Femoral neuropathy should be included in the differential diagnosis of new-onset postoperative lower limb paralysis.
