An Incidental Diagnosis of Conjoined Nerve Root After a Work-Related Back Injury: A Case Report

Cureus. 2024 Sep 2;16(9):e68436. doi: 10.7759/cureus.68436. eCollection 2024 Sep.

Abstract

Conjoined nerve roots (CNRs) are an uncommon condition often overlooked until surgery, posing significant intraoperative risks. This case report discusses a 21-year-old male diagnosed incidentally with a left lumbosacral CNR involving the fifth lumbar (L5) and first sacral (S1) spinal nerve roots following a work-related back injury, emphasizing the importance of preoperative imaging. Accurate early diagnosis of CNRs can prevent surgical complications and guide appropriate management, highlighting the need for careful preoperative planning and patient education.

Keywords: conjoined nerve root; lumbosacral spine; minimally invasive surgery; nerve entrapment; preoperative imaging.

Publication types

  • Case Reports