ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Tendon transfer surgery can restore elbow extension in approximately 70% of persons with tetraplegia and often results in antigravity elbow extension strength. However, we have noted an almost 15% rupture/attenuation rate. OBJECTIVE: This investigation was conducted to analyze potential causes in adolescents/young adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) who experienced tendon rupture or attenuation after biceps-to-triceps transfer. METHODS: Medical charts of young adults with SCI who underwent biceps-to-triceps transfer and experienced tendon rupture or attenuation were reviewed. Data collected by retrospective chart review included general demographics, surgical procedure(s), use and duration of antibiotic treatment, time from tendon transfer surgery to rupture/attenuation, and method of diagnosis. RESULTS: Twelve subjects with tetraplegia (mean age, 19 years) who underwent biceps-to-triceps reconstruction with subsequent tendon rupture or attenuation were evaluated. Mean age at time of tendon transfer was 18 years (range, 14-21 years). A fluoroquinolone was prescribed for 42% (n=5) of subjects. Tendon rupture was noted in 67% (n=8), and attenuation was noted in 33% (n=4). Average length of time from surgery to tendon rupture/attenuation was 5.7 months (range, 3-10 months). CONCLUSION: Potential contributing causes of tendon rupture/attenuation after transfer include surgical technique, rehabilitation, co-contraction of the transfer, poor patient compliance, and medications. In this cohort, 5 subjects were prescribed fluoroquinolones that have a US Food and Drug Administration black box concerning tendon ruptures. Currently, all candidates for upper extremity tendon transfer reconstruction are counseled on the effects of fluoroquinolones and the potential risk for tendon rupture.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Vision loss after spinal surgery is a rare and devastating complication. Risk factors include patient age, operative time, estimated blood loss, and intraoperative fluid management. Children with spinal cord injury often develop scoliosis that requires surgical correction. STUDY DESIGN: Case report. METHODS: Clinical and radiographic review was conducted of a 15-year-old boy who developed severe scoliosis after sustaining a C5 level injury at age 4 years from a motor vehicle crash. FINDINGS: The patient underwent a posterior spinal fusion from T2 to the pelvis, and good correction of the spinal deformity was attained. During the 8-hour procedure, blood loss was 4000 mL (approximately 1.2 blood volumes) and 17,000 mL of fluids were administered. On postoperative day 5, it was determined that the patient had complete visual loss. Neuro-ophthalmology consultation confirmed the diagnosis of posterior ischemic optic neuropathy. CONCLUSIONS: A significant number of children with spinal cord injury develop scoliosis requiring surgical correction. These procedures are often lengthy, with the potential for extensive blood loss and fluid shifts, factors that may increase the likelihood of postoperative vision loss. Patients should be counseled about this complication, and the surgical and anesthesiology teams should take all measures to minimize its occurrence.
