Korean Journal of Anesthesiology (Dec 2021)

Non-convulsive status epilepticus in the immediate postoperative period following spine surgery -a case report-

  • Kyoung Ok Kim,
  • Teakseon Lee,
  • Taehoon Kim

DOI
https://doi.org/10.4097/kja.20527
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 74, no. 6
pp. 541 – 545

Abstract

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Background Non-convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE), in which continuous epileptiform discharges occur without seizure-like movement, is rare and unfamiliar to anesthesiologists, both of which make this condition overlooked in patients with decreased levels of consciousness following general anesthesia. Case We report on an elderly female patient who developed NCSE in the immediate postoperative period after the spine surgery. Initially, delayed emergence from anesthesia was suspected, but the electroencephalogram confirmed NCSE, and anticonvulsant therapy was initiated. Conclusions Delayed emergence is commonly attributed to cerebrovascular events or residual anesthetic effects, but NCSE must be included in the differential diagnosis, especially in elderly patients. Anticonvulsant therapy should be initiated as soon as possible for a better prognosis.

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