Central retinal artery occlusion after scoliosis surgery with a horseshoe headrest. Case report and literature review.

Abstract

Central retinal artery occlusion is a well-documented entity that occurs after trauma and embolic, thrombotic, or spasmodic episodes in both children and adults. Its occurrence as a complication of elective surgery is very rare but quite tragic. This report describes a case of central retinal artery occlusion occurring in a child after scoliosis surgery in which a horseshoe headrest was used. Recommendations are given on how to avoid this serious complication.