Tetraplegia following parathyroidectomy in two long-term haemodialysis patients.

Abstract

We report two cases of postoperative iatrogenic tetraparesis, which occurred in different hospitals after surgery for parathyroidectomy. Both patients were on long-term haemodialysis. The prolonged neck extension usually required by this procedure was probably the main factor involved in the genesis of the spinal cord injury. Spinal abnormalities associated with chronic renal failure may have made these patients more vulnerable. In our opinion, it is advisable to investigate thoroughly any sign of spinal stenosis in patients who undergo any procedure requiring significant neck extension, particularly if on long-term haemodialysis.