Abstract Spinal instrumentation has evolved substantially in recent years. In keeping up with this ever-changing landscape, the spine surgeon must be cognizant of the potential complications associated with applying these…
Highlights • Vascular injuries during lumbar spine surgery are underestimated in the present literature. The reported incidence of vascular injury is less than 1%. • The sequelae may not be…
Abstract This chapter explores the vascular complications associated with cervical spine surgery for both anterior and posterior approaches. Recognizing that cervical decompression and instrumentation are common procedures, it is important…
Abstract Neurological deterioration can occur for a number of reasons following spinal surgery. This work details some of the most common causes of neurologic deterioration. There is a focus on…
Abstract Pathologies involving the craniocervical junction require comprehensive surgical management to relieve the bulbomedullary compression and ensure spinal stability. Many factors need to be considered when opting for anterior, posterior…
Abstract Decompressive craniectomy (DC) and cranioplasty are common operations which appear deceptively straightforward. However, there are many potential pitfalls and complications of these operations most of which can be avoided…
Keywords bone graft, autograft, allograft, BMP, complication Highlights • Complications from bone grafting in the spine include poor bony fusion, pain at harvest sites, in addition to infection. •…
Abstract Unintended durotomies and cerebrospinal fluid leaks are a known complication of spine surgery with an incidence of 0.3% to 35% reported in the literature. Unintended durotomies may be complicated…
Abstract Adjacent segment disease and pseudarthrosis are common complications of cervical spine fusions. Adjacent segment disease occurs in up to 30% of patients 10 years after surgery. Pseudarthrosis rates in…
Abstract Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is an increasing issue worldwide, due to the increasing age of the population. Despite the simple surgical technique it may be burdened by a high…
