'Surgiceloma' manifested as cauda equina syndrome

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Spinal Surgery
• Medical Device Complications

Background:

• Disk degeneration and spinal stenosis can necessitate surgical intervention.
• Postoperative complications, such as nerve compression, require prompt diagnosis and management.

Observation:

• A 28-year-old male presented with cauda equina syndrome 36 hours postoperatively.
• The patient had undergone surgery for degenerative disk disease and spinal stenosis.

Findings:

• Reexploration revealed swollen, blood-soaked Surgicel as the sole cause of spinal cord compression.
• Surgicel, a hemostatic agent, can potentially cause delayed-onset compression.

Implications:

• Early recognition and surgical decompression are crucial for managing iatrogenic spinal compression.
• This case highlights the importance of considering implant-related complications in postoperative neurological deficits.
• Complete recovery and return to full-time work are possible with timely intervention.