Patient History: Infection in Lumbar Spine Case Overview
Infection in spine was suspected in a 50-year-old male who sought consultation with Back Pain Specialist Dr. Sangram Rajale in Pune. The patient presented with a two-month history of persistent low back pain. The pain intensified when transitioning from sitting to standing and slightly improved while seated. Movement exacerbated the discomfort, making it difficult for him to stand or walk for extended periods. He also reported a neuroclaudication distance of approximately 15 minutes and sleep disturbances.
Given these symptoms, infection in spine was considered as the potential cause, contributing to his ongoing pain and discomfort. The patient had a recent history of right knee septic arthritis, which had been treated with an arthrotomy a month prior. This prior infection raised concerns about the possibility of it spreading to the spine, necessitating further investigation and targeted treatment for the suspected infection in spine.
Examination Findings: Signs of Infection in Lumbar Spine
On examination, by Spine Infection Specialist in Pune Dr Sangram Raale the patient exhibited significant difficulty walking. Range of Motion (ROM) of the lumbar spine revealed :-
Flexion: Painful
Extension: Painful
MRI of the Lumbosacral Spine: Diagnosing Infection in Lumbar Spine
- There is damage and infection in the lower spine area (specifically between the L5 and S1 vertebrae), with signs of infection spreading to the nearby bones and the disc between them.
- There’s a buildup of infected fluid (abscess) around this area, pressing on nearby tissues, including the nerves.
- The disc between L5 and S1 is bulging, which is slightly narrowing the spinal canal and pressing on the protective layer around the spinal cord and nearby nerves.
Operative Procedure:
The patient underwent a left-sided L5-S1 microdiscectomy on 10/09/2024 under general anesthesia, performed by Top Spine Specialist in Pune Dr. Sangram Rajale.
Condition at Discharge:
- On 23/07/2024, the patient underwent L5-S1 wound debridement with decompression and L4-S1 posterior spinal fixation under general anesthesia.
Operating Surgeon: Spine Surgery Specialist in Pune Dr. Sangram Rajale
IMPLANTS (GESCO)
- Patient stable.
- Suture line healthy and dry – no pus/discharge
- Patient ambulating without support
- No episodes of fever with chills.
- Sensations intact