Post-operative Unilateral Visual Loss and Ophthalmoplegia following Cervical Spine Surgery in Prone Position: A Case Report

Abstract

Visual loss following a spine surgery in a prone position is a disastrous and irreversible complication. Moreover, the recommended treatment for such visual loss is lacking and the outcome is not so satisfactory. A 38-year-old gentleman developed profound right sided visual loss after an uneventful cervical spine surgery in a prone position that lasted approximately two and half hours. Immediate ophthalmic consultation was done and the case was diagnosed as right-sided central retinal artery occlusion. Despite the initiation of vasodilatation, anticoagulation, and adequate fluid infusion, satisfactory improvement was not achieved. Extensive review of pertinent literature highlighted limited efficacy of treatments for postoperative visual loss after prone spinal surgery, further emphasizing the importance of preventive measures as the cornerstone in such procedures.

Keywords

• case reports; central retinal artery occlusion; cervical spine surgery; prone position; unilateral visual loss.