Brain Abscess After Halo Fixation for the Cervical Spine.
case_report · Level V
Where this comes from
- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 28522382.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1016/j.wneu.2017.05.033.
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Abstract
Halo fixation is one of the possible treatments for cervical spine fractures. However, improper use of these devices may lead to many complications, such as pin loosening, halo dislocation, pin site infection, and intradural penetration. We report the case of a 43-year-old man who first presented with a seizure and an altered level of consciousness 5 months after halo-vest placement for an odontoid fracture. Brain imaging showed a brain abscess, under the previous left parietal pin. The patient underwent abscess drainage and antibiotics were administered for 12 weeks. On hospital discharge, he presented with only mild impairments. Misapplication of halo fixation devices may lead to serious complications, including intracranial pin penetration and brain abscesses. Proper use of the recommended technique may decrease the risk for complications related to the procedure.
Medical subject headings
- Anti-Bacterial Agents
- Brain Abscess
- Drainage
- External Fixators
- Odontoid Process
- Postoperative Complications
- Prosthesis-Related Infections
- Spinal Fractures
- Staphylococcal Infections