Postendoscopic spine surgery bacterial meningitis requiring multiple surgical interventions: A complex case report.

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Infectious Diseases
• Spinal Surgery

Background:

• Bacterial meningitis following spinal surgery is a rare but severe complication.
• Previously documented cases exclusively occurred after open surgical procedures.
• Limited literature exists on the natural history and complications due to its low prevalence.

Observation:

• A patient developed bacterial meningitis after undergoing endoscopic surgical intervention for lumbar disc herniation.
• This represents a novel occurrence, as prior cases were linked to open surgery.
• The case involved complex management requiring multiple surgical interventions.

Findings:

• Endoscopic spinal surgery, while minimally invasive, can still pose a risk for bacterial meningitis.
• Cerebrospinal fluid exposure and dural injury remain potential risk factors, even with endoscopic techniques.
• Successful resolution was achieved through a multi-stage surgical approach.

Implications:

• This case expands the understanding of potential complications associated with endoscopic spinal procedures.
• Neurosurgeons should remain vigilant for bacterial meningitis even in minimally invasive approaches.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific risks and optimal management strategies for post-endoscopic meningitis.