Paraplegia after ductus ligation accompanied by injury to intercostal artery

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Pediatric Cardiology
• Neurology

Background:

• Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a common congenital heart defect in infants.
• Surgical ligation is a standard treatment for PDA when medical management fails.
• Complications of PDA surgery are generally well-documented, but new adverse events can emerge.

Observation:

• A 5-year-old girl underwent surgical ligation for PDA.
• The procedure involved ligation of the ductus arteriosus and injury to an intercostal artery.
• Post-operatively, the patient developed paraplegia.

Findings:

• Paraplegia is identified as a novel complication following surgical PDA treatment.
• The complication appears linked to surgical trauma, specifically injury to an intercostal artery during ductus ligation.
• This case highlights a potential neurological risk associated with PDA surgery.

Implications:

• This finding necessitates a review of surgical techniques for PDA to minimize neurological risks.
• Clinicians should be aware of the potential for paraplegia as a rare complication.
• Further research is warranted to understand the mechanism and incidence of this complication.