Chyloretroperitoneum following anterior spinal deformity correction. Case report

J Neurosurg Spine. 2007 Nov;7(5):562-5. doi: 10.3171/SPI-07/11/562.

Abstract

Chyloretroperitoneum is an uncommon complication following spinal surgery. The authors present the case of a patient in whom conservative treatment and initial surgical measures failed to relieve varied symptoms of postsurgical chyloretroperitoneum. Following attempts at conservative management, a peritoneal window was surgically created to divert lymphatic flow from the retroperitoneal space into the peritoneal space, where it was resorbed. This unique surgical technique provides yet another option in the treatment of refractory chyloretroperitoneum following anterior lumbar spinal surgery. The authors describe their technique and review retroperitoneal lymphatic anatomy along with similar case reports in the literature.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Chylous Ascites / diagnosis
  • Chylous Ascites / etiology*
  • Chylous Ascites / therapy
  • Drainage
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lumbar Vertebrae*
  • Middle Aged
  • Orthopedic Procedures / adverse effects*
  • Retroperitoneal Space*
  • Scoliosis / surgery*