Coronary artery bypass grafting and paraparesis; is there a correlation?

Abstract

SummaryAdult cardiac surgery is associated with significant perioperative morbidity and mortality rates, mainly in elderly patients with co-morbidities. A series of postoperative complications may arise and delay the recovery of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Such complications also increase the burden of resource use and may affect late survival rates. Neurological complications appear mainly as stroke of varying degrees, with impairment of mobility and ability of the patient. We describe a rare case of progressive paraparesis after on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting, and review its aetiology, diagnosis and management.

Quadriplegia after Mitral Valve Replacement in an Infective Endocarditis Patient with Cervical Spine Spondylitis

“…The simultaneous occurrence of infective endocarditis and cervical epidural abscess is rare [ 1 ], and quadriplegia as a complication after cardiac surgery is very rare and poorly understood [ 2 - 6 ]. The lack of management and treatment guidelines for this complication pose significant challenges for cardiac surgeons.…”

Quadriplegia after Mitral Valve Replacement in an Infective Endocarditis Patient with Cervical Spine Spondylitis

“…The simultaneous occurrence of infective endocarditis and cervical epidural abscess is rare [1], and quadriplegia as a complication after cardiac surgery is very rare and poorly understood [2][3][4][5][6]. The lack of management and treatment guidelines for this complication pose significant challenges for cardiac surgeons.…”

“…A neurological examination by a neurosurgeon yielded normal results. Laboratory tests revealed a white blood cell count of 10,190/mm 3 , aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels of 114 IU/L and 90 IU/L, respectively, and C-reactive protein levels of 1.21 mg/dL; other parameters were within normal limits. Initial chest radiography and a 12-lead electrocardiogram were unremarkable.…”