Postoperative myelitis subsequent to cervical spine radiofrequency ablation: a case report
Cuiyu Xu1,2, Maoyu Ding1,2, Yumei Yang1,2
1Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
Abstract:
Commonly used minimally invasive treatment for cervical spondylotic diseases, cervical spine radiofrequency ablation (RFA) provides benefits of faster recovery and less trauma. However, data on the monitoring and management of postoperative complications, especially severe adverse events like myelitis, is limited. This case report details a 75-year-old female patient with a medical history of hypertension, cerebral infarction, and hyperlipidemia who subsequently developed myelitis after undergoing cervical spine radiofrequency ablation (RFA). The patient received effective treatment following a sequence of diagnostic and therapeutic measures, highlighting the risk of severe complications and the vital necessity of maintaining rigorous aseptic protocols during the procedure. This report extensively discusses the etiology of myelitis in this patient and explores the direct or indirect role of RFA in the development of myelitis.
Insights
Cervical spine radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can lead to rare but severe myelitis. This case highlights the importance of aseptic technique and monitoring for this serious complication after RFA procedures.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Cervical spine radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive treatment for cervical spondylotic diseases.
- RFA offers benefits such as faster recovery and reduced trauma compared to open surgery.
- Limited data exists on managing severe postoperative complications, including myelitis, after RFA.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old female with hypertension, cerebral infarction, and hyperlipidemia developed myelitis post-cervical spine RFA.
- The patient underwent diagnostic and therapeutic measures for the condition.
- The case underscores the potential for severe adverse events following RFA.
Findings:
- Myelitis developed as a complication after cervical spine RFA in the reported case.
- The patient received effective treatment through a structured diagnostic and therapeutic approach.
- The report discusses the etiology of myelitis and the potential role of RFA.
Implications:
- Highlights the risk of severe complications like myelitis after cervical spine RFA.
- Emphasizes the critical importance of strict aseptic protocols during RFA procedures.
- Suggests the need for enhanced vigilance and management strategies for postoperative complications following RFA.
