Vascular complications in lumbar disk surgery: report of four cases

Inferior Mesenteric Artery Injury in Post-lumbar Microdiscectomy: A Case Report

Iatrogenic vascular injury during lumbar microdiscectomy is a rather rare complication, but it can have fatal consequences. Here, we report a patient who underwent an L5-S1 microdiscectomy, which was complicated by inferior mesenteric artery injury. The patient presented in the recovery room with symptoms of hypotension and tachycardia after the operation which was successfully managed by endovascular embolization. The patient was positioned in a prone position, which may have contributed to the development of vascular injury. To prevent potential complications, we advised using the Jackson table rather than a standard surgical table and thoroughly inspecting the abdomen and pelvis prior to the operation.

Vascular Injury During Lumbar Disc Surgery: Case Report

A retroperitoneal organ injury-vascular injury or solid organ injury-that occurs during lumbar disc surgery needs to be dealt with adequately, because otherwise it could result in a poor (or, even, fatal) outcome of a "simple" procedure. Vascular injuries require special attention from the neurosurgical side (think of the possibility!) and cooperation between neurosurgeons and abdominal/vascular surgeons. In the presented case of a very obese female patient, a bite injury of the aorta during L3/4 disc surgery led to delayed intra-abdominal hemorrhage, which then required an emergency abdominal operation followed by major thromboembolic complication, and ultimately resulted in amputation of the patient's healthy leg. Pitfalls in intraoperative diagnosis and postoperative care are discussed, along with related medicolegal issues.

Successful Endovascular Surgery for Iatrogenic Common Iliac Artery Injury during Lumbar Spine Surgery: A Case Report

An 80-year-old man was admitted with an L5 compression fracture, L4/5 spondylolisthesis, and L5 radiculopathy and underwent a TLIF procedure. Refractory hypotension occurred, though it indicated a possible great vessel injury with vasopressor and fluid infusion. Emergent intraoperative angiography was performed, which showed extravasation at the right common iliac artery. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta followed by right common iliac artery stenting was successfully performed to arrest the bleeding. The iatrogenic right common iliac artery laceration was complicated with abdomen compartment syndrome and acute kidney injury. The patient received supportive care, including continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) for a week, after which the patient’s condition improved. The patient did not have any residual complications at the one-month follow-up. Great vessel injury during the TLIF procedure is rare but fatal. Refractory hypotension is indicative of a great vessel injury. Endovascular intervention is a fast and promising method to diagnose and treat arterial injury.

Iatrogenic Renal Artery Injury Necessitating Nephrectomy Following Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Tubercular Spondylodiscitis

Percutaneous pedicle screw fixation and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion is a popular minimally invasive technique for fixation and fusion of vertebrae for a variety of indications. It is associated with infrequent but serious well-recognized vascular, visceral and neurological complications. Hereby, we present a case of left main renal artery injury necessitating nephrectomy during lumbar transforaminal interbody fusion of pott's spine.

Variations in the position of the aorta and vertebral safe zones in supine, prone, and lateral decubitus for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

PURPOSE

Analyze the modifications in the "safe zones" of T4-L4 vertebral bodies relative to aorta according to patient positioning, as well as in the relationship between the aorta and the vertebrae.

METHODS

Patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who underwent surgical treatment during 2017 were included. Preoperative whole spine MRI in supine, prone, and LD positions was performed. The safe zone right (SZR) was defined as the angle formed between X-axis (0º) and a line connecting the origin and the edge of the aorta, and the safe zone left (SZL) was the angle between the edge of the aorta to 180º (X-axis).

RESULTS

A total of 21 patients were studied, median age was 15.2 years, and 71.4% were female. The mean SZR lied from 0°-86.1º at T4 to 0°-76.9º at L4 in supine, from 0°-84.05º at T4 to 0º-78.5º at L4 in prone, and from 0° to 91.75º at T4 to 0°-80.4º at L4 in LD. While the mean SZL was located from 155.4º-180º at T4 to 107.9º-180º at L4 in supine, from 134°-180° at T4 to 103.9°-180° at L4 in prone, and from 143.8º-180º at T4 to 106º-180º at L4 in LD. Statistically significant differences were found almost at all levels when comparing supine versus prone and LD.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient positioning during spinal surgery significantly modifies T4-L4 vertebral safe zones relative to aorta. These variations should be taken into account when analyzing an MRI performed in supine if the patient is undergoing surgery in a different position, to avoid vascular-related injuries.

Psoas hematoma due to segmental vessel injury leads to paresis following CT-guided biopsy of lumbar vertebrae: A case report

Background:

Percutaneous bone biopsy is the first-line procedure for obtaining a tissue diagnosis to confirm focal, diffuse vertebral, and/or paravertebral metastatic lesions. Percutaneous bone biopsy to evaluate metastatic disease can be performed under fluoroscopy, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and computed tomography (CT). Notably, CT-scans best direct and demonstrate the needle position for these procedures, decreasing the risk of injury to critical adjacent structures (e.g. major vessels, nerve roots). Hemorrhagic complication to lumbar segmental arteries following needle biopsy are uncommon; only a few cases have been reported. Although percutaneous bone biopsy is typically safe when performed utilizing computed tomography (CT) guidance, here we encountered a 60-year-old-female who developed a L4 lumbar segmental artery psoas hematoma following this procedure requiring emergent embolization.

Case Description:

A 60-year-old female, with a history of breast cancer, underwent a CT-guided core needle biopsy of an L4 lytic lesion (e.g., likely a metastasis). This acutely resulted in the onset of radicular leg pain and weakness. When the postprocedural CT scan demonstrated a large psoas hematoma attributed to laceration of the left posterior L4 segmental artery, the patient required emergent embolization. Following this procedure, she exhibited a fully neurological recovery.

Conclusion:

Following a CT-guided L4 vertebral biopsy to document metastatic breast carcinoma, a 60-year-old patient developed an immediate postprocedure CT-documented psoas hematoma due to laceration of the left posterior L4 segmental artery. Following emergent embolization, the patient recovered full neurological function.

Emergent Transcatheter Arterial Embolization via a Transpopliteal Approach for Internal Iliac Artery Injury during Lumbar Disk Surgery in the Prone Position

This report describes a successful case of transcatheter arterial embolization for a critical vascular injury during lumbar disk surgery that resulted in a large retroperitoneal hematoma in a 72-year-old woman. A 4-Fr long sheath was inserted via the right popliteal artery in the prone position. Pelvic angiography revealed a pseudoaneurysm in the right internal iliac artery, which was managed with coil embolization. The patient underwent laparotomy because of abdominal compartment syndrome and was discharged in good condition after rehabilitation. The transpopliteal endovascular approach in the prone position may thus provide the best chance to treat this rare but critical condition.

Definition of safe zone in vertebral body in relation to anterior instrumentation

OBJECTIVES

We set out to determine the "safe zone" for anterior instrumentation in scoliosis surgery assessing the relationship of the great vessels to the spine.

METHODS

A total of 34 children undergoing posterior idiopathic scoliosis surgery were included in the study between 2010 and 2016. The preoperative scans were assessed to identify the position of the great vessels relative to the spine from T4 to L4. A coordinate system was specifically designed to determine safe zones for device locations. The safe zone right (SZR) was defined as the angle formed between X-axis (0°) and a line connecting the origin and the edge of the aorta and the safe zone left (SZL), the angle between the edge of the aorta to 180°.

RESULTS

The average age was 14 years, with 30 females (88.2%). Lenke classification, the most common curve was 1BN (20.6%), followed by 1AN, 3C- and 6CN (8.8% each). The Apex was T8 and T9 (29.4 and 23.5% respectively). 58% of the curves were right sided. The mean SZL was from 155.7° to 180° at the T4 level to 104.3°-180° at L4. The mean SZR was from 0 to 110.7° at T4 to 0-76.18° at L4. The side of the curves was correlated at p level with the SZL and SZR. There was a significant correlation in the following levels: from T4 to L2 in the SZL, and from T7 to L2 in the SZR.

CONCLUSIONS

Between T4 and T11, the right side of the vertebrae is safe, and from T12 to L4 the safe zones are more lateral and smaller. In a right-sided scoliosis, the danger zone moves more posterolateral at every level. In a left-sided curve, the danger zone is more anteromedial. Knowledge of these safe zones should allow safer placement of anterior devices.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Complications of Thoracolumbar Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) is a challenging problem for spine surgeons given the high risk of complications, both medical and surgical. Surgeons should have a high index of suspicion for medical complications, including cardiac, pulmonary, thromboembolic, genitourinary and gastrointestinal, renal, cognitive and psychiatric, and skin conditions, in the perioperative period and have a low threshold for involving specialists. Surgical complications, including neurologic injuries, vascular injuries, proximal junctional kyphosis, durotomy, and pseudarthrosis and rod fracture, can be devastating for the patient and costly to the health-care system. Mortality rates have been reported to be between 1.0% and 3.5% following ASD surgery. With the increasing rate of ASD surgery, surgeons should properly counsel patients about these risks and have a high index of suspicion for complications in the perioperative period.

Iatrogenic vascular laceration during posterior lumbar disc surgery: a literature review

Iatrogenic vascular laceration is a rare but well-known complication of posterior lumbar disc surgery (PLUDS). We performed a review of the literature to evaluate the management of this life-threatening complication. A total of 54 papers containing 100 cases of vascular laceration following PLUDS between 1969 and 2018 were analyzed with our representative case with a left common iliac artery (CIA) laceration during a posterior approach for a far lateral L4-L5 disc herniation. There were 54 females and 35 males (12 cases with unreported gender) with ages ranging from 20 to 72 years. The most commonly involved spinal level was L4-L5 (n = 67). The duration from the causative surgery to the symptom of the vascular injury ranged from 0 to 50 h (mean, 7.3 h). Only 47.3% of patients underwent postoperative imaging and the most commonly injured vessel was the CIA (n = 49). Vascular repair, open surgery, and/or an endovascular procedure was performed in 95 patients. The most frequent complications were deep venous thrombosis in the leg and pulmonary emboli, where a complete recovery was seen in 75.3% of patients. The mortality rate was 18.8%. In hemodynamically unstable cases, an emergent exploratory laparotomy was life-saving even without vascular imaging, although angiography with/without endovascular intervention may be used in stable patients.

Abdominal Vascular Injury During Posterior Lumbar Discectomy, Experience from Three Cases and Review of Literature

STUDY DESIGN

Case series and review of literature.

OBJECTIVE

To report three cases of vascular injury during posterior lumbar disc surgery, two of these occurred during open discectomy, and one during an endoscopic surgery. Aim is to highlight importance of early diagnosis and prompt steps taken to prevent morbidity and mortality.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Vascular injury during lumbar discectomy is rare injury. Also no case has been reported so far occurring during an endoscopic discectomy.

METHODS

Three patients were treated for lumbar intervertebral disc prolapse, two had undergone open posterior discectomy while the third patient underwent endoscopic discectomy and all of them were diagnosed to have suffered an abdominal vascular injury.

RESULTS

In two cases pseudo-aneurysm was found while third case was diagnosed as an arterio-venous fistula. All the three cases were managed with endovascular stenting and followed for a minimum period of 2 years. No further complications were detected.

CONCLUSION

Vascular injury during a disc surgery is difficult to diagnose due to the rarity of occurrence and subtle signs which need to be recognized to start early management.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5.

Iatrogenic arteriovenous fistula of the iliac artery after lumbar discectomy surgery: a systematic review of the last 18 years

Patients with iatrogenic iliac arteriovenous fistulas (IAVFs) after lumbar discectomy surgeries (LDSs) from our hospital and the published literature were reviewed in order to better understand this clinical phenomenon. Literature from databases about iatrogenic IAVFs after LDSs were retrieved and a patient from our hospital was reviewed with emphasis placed upon the patient's clinical data. From 31 publications and studies of 44 individuals' data, the study revealed L4-L5 and/or L5-S1 intervertebral space levels were mostly involved (62.0%). Most of the patients underwent computed tomography angiography (CTA) and/or digital subtraction angiography (DSA) examinations to confirm the potential diagnosis and rule out other differential diagnosis (86.4%). Most of the patients (63.6%) developed features of high output heart failure months to years after the LDSs, and the majority of them (88.6%) were treated with endovascular repairs. An iatrogenic IAVF after an LDS is a rare occurrence; however, more attention should be paid to it for the purpose of obtaining accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.

Position of the Aorta Relative to Vertebrae in Patients with Degenerative Thoracolumbar or Lumbar Scoliosis: A Case-Control Study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the position of the aorta relative to the spine in patients with de novo lumbar scoliosis (DLS).

METHODS

This study enrolled 142 patients with DLS, including 80 cases of left thoracolumbar/lumbar scoliosis (left group) and 62 cases of right scoliosis (right group). In addition, 132 cases free of deformity were allocated to the control group. Parameters of the Cobb angle and apical vertebrae were measured by radiograph, whereas the left pedicle-vertebrae angle (α), rotation angle (γ), and left pedicle-vertebrae distance (d) of T12-L4 were obtained by magnetic resonance imaging. Independent sample t test was performed to compare α, γ, and d between the DLS and control groups, followed by a Pearson correlation analysis to study the correlation between Cobb angle and α, γ, and d.

RESULTS

No difference was found between the right group and control group (P = 0.554). The value of mean d (4.62 ± 0.57 cm) gradually increased from T12 to L4 in the left group and showed significant difference with the corresponding value in the control group (4.44 ± 0.43 cm; P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the right group and control group (P = 0.762). The value of mean d (4.54 ± 1.84 cm) showed no significant difference between the right group and control group (P = 0.530). The correlation analysis showed a significant correlation between rotation angle γ and Cobb angle (P < 0.001), but not in α and d with Cobb angle.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the position of the aorta relative to the spine showed no significant difference between patients with DLS and normal subjects, great attention should still be paid to prevent DLS-induced aorta injury.

Iliac Artery Injury During Lumbar Disc Hernia Surgery

BACKGROUND

Vascular injury complications during lumbar discectomy are rare but potentially life-threatening. Therefore, an early diagnosis and effective treatment management is required for these complications.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 50-year-old female patient was admitted to our outpatient clinic with severe back and right leg pain. She underwent surgery for right L4-5 extruded disc herniation with general anesthesia. Sudden arterial hemorrhage occurred during discectomy performed with straight disc forceps and was controlled using hemostatic materials, with no significant decrease in blood pressure. However, the patient became hypotensive near the end of the operation. The incision was quickly closed, and she was turned to supine position. Emergency abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography, and computed tomography angiography revealed an injury of the left main iliac artery, which was repaired by endovascular stenting. Laparotomy and Bogota bag were applied because of increased intrabdominal pressure at 3 hours postoperative. In addition, a retroperitoneal catheter was placed into the area of the right retroperitoneal hematoma on the first postoperative day. Tissue plasminogen activator was administered through the catheter. On postoperative day 3, the Bogota bag was removed, and the abdomen was closed. The patient was discharged without neurodeficit on day 27. Her abdominal fascial defect was closed with a synthetic graft after 5 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Although lumbar discectomy is one of the most commonly performed neurosurgical procedures, the routine rules of discectomy should not be neglected. Early detection and a multidisciplinary approach can help prevent mortality in the event of vascular injury.

The summary of experience of abdominal vascular injury related to posterior lumbar surgery

PURPOSE

To study the clinical and pathophysiologic characteristics and summarize the experience of treatment of abdominal vascular injury related to lumbar surgery.

METHODS

We analyzed patients who suffered abdominal vascular injury during lumbar surgery in our hospital retrospectively and reviewed related literature in the PUBMED database from 2002 to 2017. Combined with the existing treatment options and outcomes, we investigated further and summarized our findings.

RESULTS

With the data from our hospital, four cases of injuries were included, i.e., left common iliac artery and vein (CIA and CIV), left internal iliac artery, and inferior vena cava. Almost all of the patients (one exception) manifesting unstable haemodynamics were primarily treated by traditional vessel suture. After treatment, two patients died eventually, while the others recovered well at follow-up. With the reported data, 77 patients with the most frequently type of laceration (58.4%) were included. For vascular laceration, unstable haemodynamics was diagnosed in most of the patients (88.9%); CIA and CIV accounted for the all the most common patients (78.7%). Extracted from these data, traditional surgical method was selected to repair laceration prevalently (86.7%), while arteriovenous fistula and pseudoaneurysm were treated with an interventional procedure. Negative outcomes included two deaths, two suffered lower limb deep vein thrombosis, and two suffered graft infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Different treatment choices should be conducted depending on different injury characteristics and patients' condition. Moreover, early recognition and prompt treatment are critical components to successful rescue. When a vascular injury is suspected, ultrasonography and positive abdominal exploration are recommended together with unified leadership in the rescue team.

Fetal median sacral artery anatomy study by micro-CT imaging

PURPOSE

The median sacral artery (MSA) is the termination of the dorsal aorta, which undergoes a complex regression and remodeling process during embryo and fetal development. The MSA contributes to the pelvic vascularization and may be injured during pelvic surgery. The embryological steps of MSA development, anastomosis formation and anatomical variations are linked, but not fully understood.

METHODS

The pelvic vascularization and more precisely the MSA of a human fetus at 22 weeks of gestation (GW) were studied using micro-CT imaging. Image treatment included arterial segmentations and 3D visualization.

RESULTS

At 22 GW, the MSA was a well-developed straight artery in front of the sacrum and was longer than the abdominal aorta. Anastomoses between the MSA and the internal pudendal arteries and the superior rectal artery were detected. No evidence was found for the existence of a coccygeal glomus with arteriovenous anastomosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Micro-CT imaging and 3D visualization helped us understand the MSA central role in pelvic vascularization through the ilio-aortic anastomotic system. It is essential to know this anastomotic network to treat pathological conditions, such as sacrococcygeal teratomas and parasitic ischiopagus twins (for instance, fetus in fetu and twin-reversed arterial perfusion sequence).

Vascular Complications Related to Posterior Lumbar Disc Surgery

Purpose

To evaluate patients who underwent surgical or endovascular treatment after vascular injury related to posterior lumbar disc surgery.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed seven cases of vascular injuries (four lacerations, one arteriovenous fistula [AVF], and two pseudoaneurysms) related to lumbar disc surgery by a posterior approach from January 1997 to December 2016 at Chonnam National University Hospital. Information of patient characteristics, diagnosis, treatment strategies, and outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Five out of seven cases were inhospital cases. In three laceration cases, each patient instantly became hypotensive and a life-threatening arterial injury was suspected. Therefore, the patient was immediately turned to the supine position and surgical repair was performed. The patients with pseudoaneurysm and AVF were treated by endovascular intervention. Remaining two were referred cases under the impression of vascular injuries. One laceration case of them was in preshock condition, and the left common iliac artery was surgically repaired. The other referred patient showed pseudoaneurysm which was treated with stent graft insertion. There was no surgery or endovascular intervention related death and none of the patients suffered any sequela related to vascular injury.

Conclusion

Vascular injury associated with posterior lumbar disc surgery is not common, but can be fatal. Early recognition, diagnosis, and prompt treatment are essential to prevent fatal outcomes. Recently, endovascular intervention is increasingly and preferably used because of its low morbidity and mortality. However surgery is still the best option for the patients with unstable vital sign and endovascular approach can be applied to stable patients.

Iliac arteriovenous fistulas after lumbar spinal surgery

Iatrogenic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is an unusual and potentially fatal complication of lumbar spinal surgery. The presentation of these injuries is usually late, with symptoms such as leg swelling or cardiac failure. It is crucial to suspect AVF in the patient which presents to emergency with lumbar spinal surgery history. The diagnosis is often based on imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) angiography. Surgery was the first choice of treatment, but with recent advances in stent technology endovascular approach has become widely popular. We present two cases of AVF secondary to lumbar spinal surgery, one of them presenting with overt heart failure and the other one with leg swelling.

Anatomical Location of the Common Iliac Veins at the Level of the Sacrum: Relationship between Perforation Risk and the Trajectory Angle of the Screw

Purpose. To determine the safety of transarticular surface screw (TASS) insertion and the anatomical location of the common iliac veins (CIVs) at the level of the promontorium. Materials and Methods. The locations of the CIVs on 1 mm computed tomography-myelography slices of 50 patients at the level of the promontorium and 20 human cadavers were investigated. Results. Among the patients, the left CIV was closer to the S1 anterior wall than the right CIV (mean distance: 5.0 ± 3.0 and 7.0 ± 4.2 mm, resp.). The level of the inferior vena cava (IVC) formation varied among the cadavers. The mean distance between the IVC formation and promontorium tip was 30.2 ± 12.8 mm. The height of the IVC formation and distance between the right and the left CIVs at the level of the promontorium were significantly correlated (P < 0.001). Conclusion. The TASS trajectory is safe as long as the screw does not penetrate the anterior cortex of S1. The level of the IVC formation can help to predict the distance between the right and the left CIVs at the level of the promontorium. The CIVs do not have a uniform anatomical location; therefore, preoperative computed tomography is necessary to confirm their location.

The unusual presentation of a vascular injury after lumbar microdiscectomy: case report

Vascular injury during lumbar spine surgery is a relatively rare complication but can have devastating outcomes. The injury may not be apparent during surgery and can present acutely or late in various manners, and some injuries can be asymptomatic. This report discusses the unusual case of a 35-year-old woman who underwent a right L4-5 microdiscectomy for disc herniation and 4 days postoperatively presented with a pulmonary embolus. A subsequent CT scan revealed a pseudoaneurysm and arteriovenous fistula of the right common iliac vein and artery, which gave rise to the embolus. The patient received a right iliac artery stent, and at 4 months after surgery she continues to be symptom free. This report describes the atypical presentation of vascular injury after lumbar microdiscectomy and stresses the importance of cautiously using the pituitary rongeur when removing deeper disc fragments.

The occurrence of vascular displacement into intervertebral disc space following the compensated sagittal imbalance of the spine: a case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND

It is known that sagittal compensating mechanisms are created for counteracting sagittal imbalance problems; however, they can sometimes be associated with incidents which affect the plan of management.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to report a case of the occurrence of common iliac vessel displacement into the intervertebral disc space following one of the spinal compensatory mechanisms.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The authors demonstrated this case by showing the patient history, physical examination, imaging studies, and treatment strategy as well as by reviewing some related literature.

RESULTS

An 81-year-old woman presented with a long history of low back pain with claudication. An upright plain radiograph and flexion-extension study demonstrated a progressive local thoracolumbar kyphosis and losing of lumbar lordosis with significant widening of the intervertebral disc space of L4-L5. An MRI scan and 3D volume rendering spiral computed tomography (3D-CT) revealed an abnormal content which was depicted as common iliac vessels inside the disc space of L4-L5. Consequently, a rare case of the occurrence of common iliac vessel displacement into the intervertebral disc space following one of the spinal compensatory mechanisms was reported.

CONCLUSION

The occurrence of vascular displacement into the intervertebral disc space related to lumbar hyperextension, as a compensating mechanism, is a rare incident but can occur. Consequently, when this mechanism presents with abnormal widening of the intervertebral disc space, especially at the low lumbar level, it should raise surgeon's concern about the probability of vascular injury when performing a disc procedure. Thorough investigation with imaging studies and selecting the optimum surgical treatment are warranted.

Novel posterior technique to temporize life-threatening hemorrhage after great vessel laceration during posterior osteotomy

PURPOSE

Great vessel injury during posterior 3-column osteotomy is rare, but potentially fatal. Literature review revealed limited data guiding spine surgeons during this major catastrophe. In this study our aim was first, to present our case of mortality; second, to discuss a novel technique that can be performed to temporize hemorrhage in a life-threatening situation where an iatrogenic great vessel injury occurs and hemodynamic stability cannot be achieved through usual means of hemostasis; third, a cadaveric study to determine if this novel technique is feasible.

METHODS

Three fresh cadavers including thoracic, lumbar, and pelvis were used. A thoraco-abdominal approach was used to access great vessels at the level of L3. The aorta and vena cava were identified and tagged. The cadavers were turned prone; a pedicle subtraction osteotomy was performed at the level of L3. A novel posterior peri-vertebral approach was used to reach the great vessels. The aorta and vena cava were occluded digitally with this approach and success confirmed visually through the thoraco-abdominal incision. Timing of the procedure and structures at risk were recorded.

RESULTS

In all three cadavers, we were able to successfully occlude the great vessels from a prone position. The average amount of time it took to digitally occlude the great vessels was less than a minute. Structures at risk included the L1 and L2 nerve roots, lumbosacral plexus, and the sympathetic trunk.

CONCLUSIONS

The posterior peri-vertebral approach can potentially be used by a spine surgeon during a life-threatening situation to temporarily occlude great vessel hemorrhage while waiting for the assistance of a vascular/trauma team.

[Vascular complications associated with lumbar spinal surgery]

Although there are currently less invasive techniques available for the treatment of spinal injuries, open surgery is still required in many cases. Vascular injuries occurring during lumbar spine surgery, although uncommon, are of great importance due to their potential gravity. Clinical manifestations vary from an acute hemorrhagic shock that needs urgent treatment to save the patient's life, to insidious injuries or an asymptomatic evolution, and should be studied to choose the best therapeutic alternative. Four cases are reported that represent this range of possibilities and emphasize the importance of a careful surgical technique during lumbar spine interventions, and the need for high clinical suspicion, essential for the early diagnosis of these vascular complications. The current therapeutic options are also discussed.

An acute abdominal syndrome reveals a postoperative ilio-iliac arteriovenous fistula: about one case

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative ilio-iliac arteriovenous fistula is an unusual but known complication after lumbar surgery.

CASE REPORT

We report the case of a 74-year-old patient consulted at the emergency department for intense acute abdominal syndrome revealing a post-operative common ilio-iliac arteriovenous fistula 5 years after a lumbosacral arthrodesis L3-S1. The patient was treated with an endovascular arterial stent-graft with immediate vascular and clinical results.

CONCLUSION

Arteriovenous fistula is a possible etiology of acute abdominal syndrome in patients with lumbar or abdominopelvic surgery history.

Iatrogenic left common iliac artery and vein perforation during lumbar discectomy: a fatal case

Iatrogenic vascular injury during lumbar disk surgery, although rare, is a serious complication, and when it does occur, can be sudden and life-threatening. The risk of injury to the pelvic vessels intra-operatively can be explained by the close proximity of the retroperitoneal vessels to the vertebral column therefore causing injury to the anterior longitudinal ligament, which can give access to the retroperitoneal space. If signs of circulatory instability are noted during lumbar disk surgery, early diagnosis of vascular injury and urgent transperitoneal surgery or emergency stenting can save the patient's life. Here, is presented the case of a 52-year-old man who underwent an elective lumbar discectomy for a rightward disk herniation in the L4-L5 intervertebral space and died 12h after the operation for a hemorrhagic shock due to a severe intra-abdominal hemorrhage following iatrogenic left common iliac artery and vein perforation during lumbar discectomy.

Endovascular aortic injury repair after thoracic pedicle screw placement

Our objective was to describe the management and prevention of thoracic aortic injuries caused by a malposition of pedicle screws in corrective surgery of major spine deformities. Positioning pedicle screws in thoracic vertebras by posterior approach exposes to the risk of injury of the elements placed ahead of the thoracic spine, as the descending thoracic aorta. This complication can result in a cataclysmic bleeding, needing urgent vascular care, but it can also be totally asymptomatic, resulting in the long run in a pseudoaneurysm, justifying the systematic removal of the hardware. We report the case of a 76-year-old woman who underwent spinal correction surgery for thoraco-lumbar degenerative kypho-scoliosis. Immediately after the surgery, a thoracic aortic injury caused by the left T7 pedicle screw was diagnosed. The patient underwent a two-step surgery. The first step was realized by vascular surgeons and aimed to secure the aortic wall by short endovascular aortic grafting. During the second step, spine surgeons removed the responsible screw by posterior approach. The patient was discharged in a rehabilitation center 7 days after the second surgery. When such a complication occurs, a co-management by vascular and spine surgeons is necessary to avoid major complications. Endovascular management of this kind of vascular injuries permits to avoid an open surgery that have a great rate of morbi-mortality in frail patients. Nowadays, technologies exist to prevent this kind of event and may improve the security when positioning pedicle screws.

Innovative Technique of Vascular Repair in Intra-Operative IVC Rupture During Lumbar Microdiscectomy: A Case Report

Background

Major vascular injury during a spinal surgery is a rare but most dreaded complication.

Case Presentation

A 39 years old female undergoing microscopic lumbar discectomy suddenly developed severe hypotension on table. The procedure was abandoned and the patient turned supine. It was diagnosed to be a major vessel tear and the patient was taken up for immediate successful vascular repair. To best of our knowledge such a repair procedure has not been described in literature.

Conclusions

Majority of such vascular injuries are dealt with primary repair of the defect by a vascular surgeon; however in our case the rent was big and placed on the undersurface making it very difficult for the vascular surgeon to approach or repair it primarily.

Abdominal aortic injury due to lumbar disc surgery: A case report

Complications arising from lumbar intervertebral disc surgery are rare but fatal. Major vascular injury is one complication that may end in death unless it is diagnosed and treated immediately. Herein we report an abdominal aortic injury due to L3-L4 intervertebral disc surgery that was treated successfully and discuss it in light of current literature. Diagnosis and treatment of an abdominal aortic injury in a 31-year-old male patient operated on for L3-L4 intervertebral disc degeneration is discussed. Interestingly, in spite of abdominal aortic injury this particular patient was hemodynamically stable. The diagnosis was made 12 hours after disc surgery and laparotomy was performed immediately. As the injury in the aorta was large and had irregular margins, it could not be repaired with primary repair but an end-to-end anastomosis with partial resection was performed. In lumbar intervertebral disc hernia surgery, peroperative hemodynamic instability should raise suspicion of major vascular injury with high mortality and appropriate surgical treatment should be done as soon as possible. If there is any finding suggesting an intraoperative vascular injury, the patient should be kept under close monitoring in order not to delay diagnosis and treatment. It should not be forgotten that hemodynamic stability does not rule out major vascular injury.

A shift toward endovascular repair for vascular complications in lumbar disc surgery during the last decade

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to evaluate 2 patients who underwent endovascular repair directly after acute life-threatening vascular injury complicating lumbar disc surgery, and to update an overview of the literature from 2002 to gain insights into characteristics, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of this rare, life-threatening complication.

METHODS

PubMed was searched for English language studies on vascular injury (lacerations, arteriovenous fistulas, and pseudoaneurysms) complicating lumbar disc surgery by a posterior approach published from 2002. Two cases from the authors' institute were added to the review. Information on patient characteristics, diagnosis, treatment strategies, and outcomes were extracted by 2 independent reviewers.

CASE REPORTS

The first case describes a 54-year-old man who underwent lumbar disc surgery through a posterior approach (L5-S1) and became hypotensive intraoperatively. Angiography revealed an injury of the right internal iliac artery. Bleeding was successfully repaired by endovascular repair (acute balloon occlusion followed by coiling). The second case describes a 51-year-old women who suddenly became hypotensive during L4 through L5 discectomy caused by bleeding from a laceration in the right common iliac artery. Angiography confirmed the diagnosis, and the bleeding was successfully treated through endovascular repair with a covered stent.

RESULTS

A total of 56 cases from 34 articles were found in the literature since 2002, including lacerations, arteriovenous fistulas, and pseudoaneurysms. Two cases from the authors' institute were added to the review. Vascular injury was recognized intraoperatively in 36%, and within 24 hours postsurgery in 28%. The common iliac artery was most frequently affected (51%), followed by the iliac vein (23%). All lacerations were detected during surgery, whereas most arteriovenous fistulas and pseudoaneurysms were detected in the long term. Treatment consisted of open surgical repair (57%) or endovascular repair (43%). All patients survived surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Publication bias might play a role in the literature of this area because all cases survived surgery, whereas mortality rates for this condition are high. However, early recognition, diagnosis, and prompt surgical repair are essential to prevent fatal outcomes in vascular injuries complicating lumbar disc surgery. Endovascular repair is a minimally invasive, fast, and efficient treatment modality that is increasingly and preferably used because of its low morbidity and mortality.

Approach to the vascular complications of lumbar disc surgery

The objective of this study was to demonstrate the role of major surgery on patients presenting with vascular complications after lumbar disc surgery. A retrospective analysis of seven cases treated surgically in two tertiary care centers between August 2001 and June 2010 was carried out. The average age of patients (three women and four men) was 35.8 ± 7.2. The most common vessel injured was the left common iliac artery occurring in five patients (71.4%), followed by the left common iliac vein injury detected in two patients (28.5%). Transperitoneal approach was preferred in all cases and primary suturing, graft interposition and end-to-end anastomoses were the surgical methods used for the repair of vascular injury. No mortality was seen in our series during the follow-up period of two years; however, the most noteworthy complication was paraplegia occurring in one patient. Vascular injury occurring at lumbar discus surgery has a considerable potential for morbidity and mortality. A high index of suspicion is necessary for early diagnosis. In hemodynamically instable patients, the transperitoneal approach provides better exposure and more effective control of hemorrhage, while minimal angiography and endovascular intervention should be preserved for hemodynamically stable cases.

Injury to major abdominal vessels during posterior lumbar interbody fusion. A case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Numerous cases of injury to major abdominal vessels during the excision of a lumbar herniated disc have been reported, but no cases of injury during interbody fusion by a posterior approach have been described.

PURPOSE

To report on an injury to common iliac vessels during a posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) and discuss the causes and possible preventive measures.

STUDY DESIGN

A unique case report and a review of the literature.

METHODS

The hospital chart and autopsy report of a single patient were analyzed.

RESULTS

A 52-year-old woman with L4-L5 disc degeneration underwent PLIF. During scraping of the vertebral end plates, there was a sudden increase in blood flow from the disc space, however not copious, with no changes of vital parameters. When the patient was placed supine, severe hypotension and abdominal distension led to strongly suspect a lesion to abdominal vessels. At laparotomy, carried out by a vascular surgeon, a vast retroperitoneal hematoma was evacuated and the vascular lesions were repaired. Postoperatively, the patient continued to lose blood from the abdominal drains and after 4 hours, she was reoperated by another vascular surgeon, who found a diffuse hemorrhage from the small vessels in the surgical field. Soon after the surgery the patient died.

CONCLUSIONS

The lesions were produced by a shaver used for scraping the vertebral end plates. The absence of abundant bleeding from the disc space was possibly because of the compression of the iliac vessels by the pads of the frame on which the patient was lying. The causes of the lesions and possible prevention of similar injuries are analyzed.

Avaliação do posicionamento da aorta em pacientes com escoliose idiopática do adolescente

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o posicionamento da aorta em pacientes com escoliose. MÉTODOS: Foram realizados exames de imagem em pacientes ambulatoriais com escoliose idiopática do adolescente e em um grupo formado por pacientes hígidos, sendo analisados seis parâmetros: comprimento do corpo vertebral, largura, distância aorta-corpo, diâmetro da aorta, distância aorta-canal e ângulo corpo-aorta. RESULTADOS: As curvas variaram entre T3 e L2 com ângulos de Cobb de 46° e 114°. Pela classificação de Lenke os tipos 1AN e 1BN ocorreram em 20% dos casos, além de 1CN, 3BN, 3C+ com 13,3 % e 1B+, 3C- com 6,7 %. As vértebras próximas ao ápice da curva no grupo escoliose apresentam valores superiores às do grupo controle (em T8 com média de 86,93° no grupo escoliose e média 49,07 no grupo controle (p < 0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: Quanto mais próximo do ápice da deformidade, maior a póstero-lateralização da aorta.

Regarding the possibility of anterior vascular injury from the posterior approach to the lumbar disc space: an anatomical study

STUDY DESIGN

Anatomical study with magnetic resonance imaging data.

OBJECTIVE

To document the distances between the major retroperitoneal vessels and the anterior lumbar disc spaces; to determine the effect of patient positioning on these relationships; and to discuss ways to deal with vascular injury.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

It is well known that there are major vascular structures anterior to the lower lumbar spine. Vascular injury during posterior approaches, however, remains a problem. These anatomical relationships have not been determined in vivo, and there are no data on the effect of turning the patient prone, and onto bolsters.

METHODS

A random sampling of 49 women and 48 men was made. All examinations were performed in magnetic resonance scanners operating at 1.5 T. Measurements were made using electronic calipers on axial T2-weighted images. Post hoc studies were done on a smaller number of patients, to determine the effect of prone positioning.

RESULTS

At the L4-L5 level, 66% of the common iliac arteries in women and 49% of those in men were within 5 mm of the anterior aspect of the disc space. At L5-S1, these numbers dropped to 23% for women and 19% for men. No relationship between the age of the patient and the distance from disc space to blood vessel was found. There was little change in these measurements between the supine and prone positions. The use of bolsters to decompress the abdominal contents in the prone position did not significantly alter the disc-artery distances. Venous relationships were also documented.

CONCLUSION

The lower lumbar spine is confirmed to frequently be very close to the major retroperitoneal vessels. Turning the patient prone and placing the patient on bolsters does not change this relationship. This is part of the reason why vascular injuries may occur during routine lumbar spine surgery. Spine surgeons should be able to recognize and initiate treatment of such injuries.

Iliac artery perforation and treatment during lumbar disc surgery by simple balloon tamponade

INTRODUCTION

Although vascular injury during lumbar disc surgery is quite rare, it may be life threatening if not recognized and treated immediately.

CASE

We report the case of a woman who had a left common iliac artery laceration during spinal surgery and was treated by endovascular therapy. In the past, open surgery was the only way to repair a vascular injury, but thanks to the advance of new endovascular techniques and devices, endovascular therapy has become a strong alternative.

CONCLUSION

This case differs from those published in the literature as we used a single balloon inflation and subtotal occlusion without the need for a covered stent.

Endovascular treatment of an iatrogenic large vessel arteriovenous fistula presenting as high output heart failure: a case report

Formation of an iatrogenic chronic large vessel arteriovenous (AV) fistula is an uncommon, early or late complication of spine surgery and associated with serious consequences. Its diagnosis is often delayed for months or years after the occurrence and rarely only after the patient develops heart failure secondary to a mature AV fistula. We present the case of a 43-year-old man with high-output heart failure due to an iatrogenic large vessel AV fistula after lumbar disc surgery successfully treated with the endovascular technique.

Management of Proximal Iliac Artery Injury during Lumbar Discectomy with Stent Graft

Iatrogenic vascular injuries during lumbar disc surgery may occur rarely but they are serious complications, which can be fatal without appropriate management. Prompt diagnosis and management of these complications are imperative to prevent a desperate outcome. A 72-year-old female with proximal left common iliac artery iatrogenic injury during lumbar discectomy was successfully treated by percutaneous deployment of a stent graft in an emergency setting. Postprocedural angiogram demonstrated complete exclusion of the iliac artery laceration. The patient became hemodynamically stable. Two weeks later she complained of vascular claudication. Follow-up angiography revealed decreased arterial flow in the opposite common iliac artery. An additional kissing stent was inserted into the right common iliac artery and the symptoms of vascular claudication disappeared. Endovascular stenting offers a safe and effective method for the treatment of an iatrogenic arterial laceration, particularly in a critical condition. But, the contralateral iliac arterial flow should be kept intact in case of proximal iliac artery injury. Otherwise, additional treatments may be needed.

Computed tomographic evaluation of thoracic pedicle screw placement in idiopathic scoliosis

This retrospective observational study aimed to determine the accuracy of the placement of transpedicular thoracic screws used in idiopathic scoliosis and to evaluate the position and safety of the implants using postoperative computed tomography. Twenty-nine patients who underwent surgery for scoliosis between May 2003 and November 2005 were included in this study. The mean spinal curvature was 67°, and all of the patients had thoracic screws or hooks implanted. The positioning of 78 pedicle screws was evaluated using computed tomography after the free-handed technique was performed. The mean spinal curvature after surgery was 29°. Seventy-six percent of the screws were fully contained within the pedicle. Twenty-one screws breached the pedicle by between 2 and 4 mm (three medially and 18 laterally). Two screws were broken. A neurological deficit was identified in one case after surgery, but the deficit was reversed after the removal of the screws. This screw had a medial breach of greater than 4 mm. Most screws were inserted between the cortical vertebrae. Misplaced screws were most commonly inserted with a lateral cortical perforation.

Endovascular repair of aorto-iliac artery injuries after lumbar-spine surgery

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to describe the endovascular management of abdominal-aortic- or common-iliac-artery injuries after lumbar-spine surgery.

METHODS

Patients treated for abdominal-aortic- or common-iliac-artery injuries after lumbar-spine surgery during a 13-year period were identified from an endovascular database, providing prospective information on techniques and outcome. The corresponding patient records and radiographic reports were analysed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Seven patients were treated with acute (n = 3) or subacute (n = 4) injuries of the common iliac artery (n = 6) or abdominal aorta (n = 1) after lumbar-spine surgery. Vascular injuries included arterial lacerations (n = 3), arteriovenous fistulas (n = 2) and pseudo-aneurysms (n = 2). The mean age of the patients was 51.7 years (30-60 years), 71.4% were women. These lesions were repaired by transluminal placement of stent grafts: Passager (n = 3), Viabahn (n = 1), Wallgraft (n = 1), Zénith (n = 1) and Advanta V12 (n = 1). Exclusion of the injury was achieved in all cases. Mortality was nil. There were no procedure-related complications. During a median follow-up of 8.7 years (range 0.3-13 years), all stent grafts remained patent.

CONCLUSIONS

Sealing of common iliac artery or abdominal aortic lesions as a complication of lumbar-disc surgery with a stent graft is effective and is suggested as an excellent alternative to open surgery for iatrogenic great-vessel injuries, particularly in critical conditions.

Rupture of external iliac artery during microscopic lumbar disc surgery -A case report-

Iatrogenic vascular injury during lumbar disc surgery is a rare but serious complication. This paper reports a patient who sustained an injury to the iliac artery while undergoing intervertebral disc surgery at the lumbar region. He suffered from massive bleeding and shock. An urgent laparatomy was performed under cardiopulmonary bypass, and the vascular injuries were repaired successfully. This case shows that a rapid diagnosis and immediate intervention can result in a favorable outcome.

Surgical mystery: where is the missing pituitary rongeur tip?

STUDY DESIGN

Case report.

OBJECTIVE

We report the unusual case of a patient who was referred to our institution after she sustained an intraoperative injury to the common iliac vein during posterior lumbar discectomy at L5-S1 with a pituitary rongeur. There was only minimal bleeding with spontaneous hemostasis and no hemodynamic instability. Subsequently, the referring surgeon noted that the pituitary rongeur tip was missing.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Vascular injury during lumbar discectomy is a rare, but potentially devastating complication. Rapid diagnosis and treatment is traditionally targeted toward hemodynamic stabilization and repair of compromised structures.

METHODS

Intraoperative fluoroscopy confirmed the presence of the tip anterior to the L3 vertebral body, indicating a possible intravascular migration of the foreign body. After completion of the surgical procedure, an abdominal computed tomography scan failed to confirm the metallic object within the abdominal cavity. Subsequent imaging studies demonstrated the presence of the rongeur tip in the left ventricle. Transthoracic echocardiogram and cardiac catheterization confirmed the presence of a patent foramen ovale and localized the rongeur tip within the papillary cords of the left ventricle, in close proximity of the mitral valve leaflets.

RESULTS

After failure to retrieve the foreign object during cardiac catheterization, the patient underwent sternotomy, removal of foreign metallic object, and closure of patent foramen ovale.

CONCLUSION

Close multidisciplinary collaboration allowed for proper diagnosis and the safe retrieval of the missing rongeur tip from the left ventricle.

Coil embolization of a lumbar artery to control vascular injury during intradiscal surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Case study.

OBJECTIVE

To emphasize the role that interventional radiology can perform in stemming bleeding to vascular structures injured during spine surgery without altering patient position.

SUMMARY AND BACKGROUND DATA

Injury to the lumbar artery or aorta may occur during lumbar disc surgery. Occasionally the site of bleeding may not be readily identifiable or accessible through the surgical incision. Interventional radiology techniques may be employed to help locate and stop these difficult to locate vascular structures without changing a patient position.

METHODS

A 48-year-old woman undergoing L4-L5 lumbar hemilaminectomy and discectomy secondary to a herniated disc sustained an injury to a right L3 lumbar artery. Several liters of blood were lost in an attempt to surgically locate and repair the injury to the lumbar artery. A literature search identified the potential severity and treatment options.

RESULTS

An interventional radiologist was called for and he was able to angiographically locate the source of bleeding and stem its source using coil embolization of the lumbar artery.

CONCLUSION

Whenever there is bleeding from an inaccessible site, consultation with an interventional radiologist to perform an intraoperative coil embolization of the injured vessel should be done especially if a resort to an anterior abdominal approach would permit uncontrolled bleeding.

Vascular injury in thoracolumbar spinal surgeries and role of angiography in early diagnosis and management

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective outcomes study.

OBJECTIVE

To stress on the importance of early diagnosis with the help of angiography and proper treatment of vascular injuries occurring during thoracolumbar surgeries and to report our results.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Vascular injury is a rare but dangerous complication that can develop during thoracolumbar surgeries and if not treated properly then it can lead to severe complications including the death of the patient.

METHODS

The patients included in this study were the ones who were suspected to have a possible vascular injury after a thoracolumbar surgery. Contrast enhanced computed tomography was performed for patients having clinical signs suggesting vascular injury. Among these patients, who were suspected to have active bleeding and major vessel injury on computed tomography were further subjected to angiography.

RESULTS

Of the 10 cases included in the study, vascular injury was identified to be arterial in origin in 8 cases and venous in 3 cases. Among the 8 cases of identified arterial injury, angiography was performed in 4 cases, of which 3 were found to have active bleeding and were subjected to immediate intervention. Of the 4 cases in which angiography was not performed, 3 of them expired at variable postoperative periods. Complications developed in total 5 cases including 3 cases of mortality, 1 case of infection, and 1 case of cauda equina syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

The vascular injuries during thoracolumbar spinal surgeries need immediate and aggressive treatment. In arterial injuries, we can prevent serious consequences by subjecting the patient to an angiography as early as possible followed by a therapeutic embolization. In contrast, for venous injuries if hemostasis has been confirmed, then an immediate intervention may not be always required.

Endovascular treatment for common iliac artery injury complicating lumbar disc surgery : limited usefulness of temporary balloon occlusion

Vascular injury during lumbar disc surgery is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication. It has been managed by open vascular surgical repair. With recent technologic advance, endovascular treatment became one of effective treatment modalities. We present a case of a 32-year-old woman who suffered with common iliac artery injury during lumbar disc surgery that was treated successfully by endovascular repair with temporary balloon occlusion and subsequent insertion of a covered stent. Temporary balloon occlusion for 1.5 hours could stop bleeding, but growing pseudoaneurysm was identified at the injury site during the following 13 days. It seems that the temporary balloon occlusion can stall bleeding from arterial injury for considerable time duration, but cannot be a single treatment modality and requires subsequent insertion of a covered stent.