Iatrogenic giant pseudomeningocele of the cervical spine: A case report
1Department of Korean Medicine Rehabilitation, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, South Korea.
Background:
Only a few cases of giant pseudomeningoceles have been reported in the literature. Herein, we report a giant pseudomeningocele of the cervical spine that was found after cervical laminectomy for an epidural hematoma following epidural blockade.
Case Summary:
A 47-year-old man presented with recurrent neck pain and posterior neck swelling after spinal surgery. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine revealed fluid collection (5.6 cm × 6.6 cm × 11.2 cm) at the C3-6 level; this proved to be a pseudomeningocele. Symptoms related to the pseudomeningocele resolved following dural repair and fat graft transplantation.
Conclusion:
Although rare, pseudomeningocele is a possibility in patients with recurrent back pain, radicular pain, or a persistent headache following spinal surgery. Continuous attention should be paid throughout the spinal procedure, whether conservative or non-conservative.
Insights
Giant pseudomeningoceles are rare complications following spinal surgery. This case highlights a large cervical pseudomeningocele successfully treated with dural repair and fat grafting.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Giant pseudomeningoceles are infrequently documented in medical literature.
- This report details a rare case of a giant cervical pseudomeningocele.
- The pseudomeningocele developed subsequent to cervical laminectomy for epidural hematoma post-epidural blockade.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old male experienced persistent neck pain and swelling after spinal surgery.
- Cervical spine MRI identified a large (5.6 cm × 6.6 cm × 11.2 cm) fluid collection at the C3-6 level.
- The fluid collection was diagnosed as a pseudomeningocele.
Findings:
- Surgical intervention included dural repair and fat graft transplantation.
- Post-operative symptoms associated with the pseudomeningocele resolved completely.
- Successful treatment of a large cervical pseudomeningocele was achieved.
Implications:
- Pseudomeningocele should be considered in patients with persistent or recurrent pain after spinal procedures.
- Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- This case underscores the importance of vigilance during and after spinal interventions.
