Transient bilateral post-operative visual loss in spinal surgery

Eur Spine J. 2012 Jun;21 Suppl 4(Suppl 4):S495-8. doi: 10.1007/s00586-011-2117-7. Epub 2011 Dec 15.

Abstract

Background: Post-operative visual loss (POVL) following spinal surgery is a rare but devastating complication. Although a number of intra-operative and post-operative factors have been implicated, the exact etiology may still remain unclear.

Purpose: To report a unique case of transient bilateral POVL in a patient who had undergone lumbar surgery in the prone position.

Study design/setting: This patient was followed up prospectively for 1 year.

Methods: Prospective follow-up of a single patient following spinal surgery, who developed transient bilateral POVL.

Results: This patient's visual loss improved within 48 h.

Conclusion: This is the only documented case of POVL to have resolved completely within 48 h.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Blindness / etiology*
  • Ependymoma / surgery
  • Humans
  • Laminectomy / adverse effects*
  • Lumbar Vertebrae / surgery
  • Male
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / adverse effects*
  • Prone Position
  • Sacrum / surgery
  • Spinal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Treatment Outcome