We present a new case of pseudoaneurysm of the abdominal wall, subsidiary to the inferior epigastric artery, associated with the use of discharge sutures. Pseudoaneurysms are a well-known complication of surgery, puncture, or trauma. Pseudoaneurysms of the inferior epigastric artery are very infrequent. We know of only two cases in the literature. In both cases, the pseudoaneurysm was associated with the use of discharge sutures. We discuss its pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment.
Background:The number of esophageal and pharyngeal perforations occurring in anterior cervical surgeries ranges from 0.25% to 1% and 0.2% to 1.2%, respectively. Symptoms usually appear postoperatively and are attributed to: Local infection, fistula, sepsis, or mediastinitis. Acute postoperative hematoma, although very rare (<1%), is the first complication to rule out due to its life-threatening complications (e.g. acute respiratory failure).Case Description:Over a 36-year period, the author(s) described three severe esophageal/pharyngeal complications attributed to anterior cervical surgery. As these complications were appropriately recognized/treated, patients had favorable outcomes.Conclusions:Anterior cervical spine surgery is a safe approach and is associated with few major esophageal/pharyngeal complications, which most commonly include transient dysphagia and dysphonia. If symptoms persist, patients should be assessed for esophageal/pharyngeal defects utilizing appropriate imaging studies. Notably, even if the major complications listed above are adequately treated, optimal results are in no way guaranteed.
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