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Pancreatic Pseudocyst Following Spinal Surgery: Always Think About It-A Case Report
Maria Vittoria Stern1, Filomena Valentina Paradiso1, Riccardo Rizzo1
1Pediatric Surgery Unit, Department of Maternal and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, 00136 Rome, Italy.
Annali Italiani Di Chirurgia
|June 16, 2025
Summary
Conservative management effectively treated a rare pancreatic pseudocyst (PP) in a pediatric patient after spinal surgery for neurogenic scoliosis. This approach resolved symptoms and fluid accumulation, highlighting its safety and efficacy in similar cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Pancreatic pseudocysts (PP) are rare gastrointestinal complications following spinal surgery.
- Neurogenic scoliosis, often associated with cerebral palsy (CP), requires complex surgical interventions like spinal arthrodesis.
- Postoperative abdominal complications occur in 5%-55% of patients with CP undergoing spinal surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the successful conservative management of a pancreatic pseudocyst in a pediatric patient post-spinal surgery.
- To emphasize the importance of considering pancreatic complications in patients with persistent abdominal symptoms after spinal procedures.
Main Methods:
- A 12-year-old female with CP underwent spinal arthrodesis and lumbar fixation for neurogenic scoliosis.
- Postoperative abdominal CT revealed a large pancreatic pseudocyst.
- Percutaneous drainage was performed, and the cyst fluid analysis confirmed a high amylase concentration, indicative of a PP.
Main Results:
- The pancreatic pseudocyst was successfully managed conservatively with percutaneous drainage.
- The patient's symptoms resolved progressively over 23 days, with complete resolution of the pseudocyst.
- Conservative management proved safe and effective, with no reported complications.
Conclusions:
- Pancreatic complications, such as PP, should be considered in pediatric patients experiencing persistent postoperative abdominal symptoms after spinal surgery.
- Conservative management, including percutaneous drainage, is a recommended and effective approach for PP in young patients, especially those with compromised general health.
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