What is it about?
This article discusses a rare medical case involving acute pancreatitis following lumbar spine surgery. Specifically, it describes the case of a 38-year-old martial arts champion who underwent a lumbar laminectomy and Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) to address chronic lower back pain and bilateral radiculopathy. Despite having no prior medical conditions or typical risk factors for pancreatitis—such as alcohol consumption or pre-existing pancreatic disease—the patient developed acute pancreatitis on the second postoperative day. Symptoms included severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and elevated pancreatic enzyme levels. A contrast-enhanced CT scan confirmed the diagnosis. Treatment involved fasting, fluid therapy, and antibiotics, leading to a full recovery within a few days. The article highlights the importance of recognizing this uncommon complication, emphasizing the role of intraoperative hemodynamic instability, mechanical compression, and patient-specific factors as potential triggers.
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Why is it important?
Acute pancreatitis is rare but serious complication that can occur following spinal surgery. Though uncommon in this context, can lead to severe outcomes, including multi-organ failure and death, if not promptly diagnosed and treated. The case underscores the need for healthcare providers, especially spine surgeons, to maintain vigilance for unexpected postoperative complications, even in low-risk patients. Additionally, it highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing such cases, involving close collaboration between surgeons, general practitioners, and critical care teams. This report contributes to the limited body of literature on postoperative pancreatitis in spinal surgery, helping to improve awareness, diagnostic accuracy, and patient outcomes. By understanding the potential mechanisms and risk factors, medical professionals can develop better prevention and management strategies for similar cases in the future.
Perspectives
Writing this Case Report was a great pleasure, allowing me to collaborate with a team of exceptional co-authors. This case report sheds light on a rare and underreported complication, and I hope it serves as a valuable resource for the medical community. The insights gained from this work inspire further exploration into rare postoperative conditions, fostering greater awareness and understanding in the field of spinal surgery.
Abdulaziz Munshi
Umm Al-Qura University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Acute Pancreatitis after Lumbar Spine Surgery: A Case Report, Journal of Spine Practice, December 2024, Knowledge E,
DOI: 10.18502/jsp.v4i1.16609.
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