Changed Tolerance of Cervical Collar and Weakness as the Initial Presentation of Deep Surgical Site Infection in Central Cord Syndrome Patient Status Post C25 Posterior Fusion — ISPRM 2020

Lacey SA, Kim G, Myers K

Abstracted submitted to the International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine 2020

60 year old man with cervical stenosis sustained a syncopal episode from a sitting height. He was found by a co-worker and reported being unable to move arms or legs. Diagnostic workup revealed C3-C4 fracture, ALL rupture and central cord syndrome. He underwent C2-C5 posterior fusion the next day and received post-operative course of steroids. Upon transfer to inpatient rehabilitation service on post-op day 11, patient was noted to have 4/5 strength in arms and 5/5 strength in legs. Patients who undergo inpatient rehabilitation after spine surgery should receive daily neurological exams and be monitored for increased pain or discomfort, especially in those with pre-operative and intra-operative risk factors.