A pacemaker lead infection as a complication of a discitis post fall in an elderly: A case report

Abstract

The population around the world is growing in age, and taking care of the elderly has become a medical challenge as new pathologies, risk factors, treatments, and approaches are being explored. One of the most important chapters that should be focused on is falls in the elderly, as it is a common reason for, not only fractures but also dependency, morbidity, and mortality in this population. The chapter on fall is vast and can be further categorized. In this article, we aim to focus on one of the complications, which is discitis post-vertebral fracture. The patient studied was a 78-year-old female patient who consulted post-fall and was admitted to the geriatric ward for a vertebral fracture. The hospitalization was complicated by a spinal infection and later on by a rarely-seen pacemaker lead infection. Vertebral fractures are very common in the geriatric population, whether spontaneously or post-trauma. Although treatment can be surgical or conservative, complications are commonly seen and can be fatal. Discitis is a medical challenge as the germs can be difficult to isolate, the pain management is difficult and in frail elderly patients, the infection and inflammation can be fatal. Prevention of falls is important in the elderly population as a simple slip can have drastic outcomes. Understanding the possible complications of falls is essential for better management.

Non-invasive neuromodulation in reducing the risk of falls and fear of falling in community-dwelling older adults: systematic review

“…Falls among older adults have significant repercussions, including serious injuries, negative impacts on physical function, mobility, psychological well-being, independence, and the potential need for long-term care ( Maita et al, 2023 ). They can lead to decreased independence, increased risk of morbidity and mortality, and greater dependency and disability ( Hamieh et al, 2023 ). Injuries from falls are associated with disability, loss of independence, and increased mortality among older adults.…”