Delayed Pyogenic Spondylitis at the Same Level as Rod Fracture After Surgery for Adult Spinal Deformity

Abstract

Case: Rod fracture (RF) occurred at L5-S level in a 79-year-old woman 7 months after spinal corrective surgery for adult spinal deformity (ASD). Four years after the surgery, pyogenic spondylitis occurred at the same level as RF. After the reinforcement of broken rods posteriorly, a transperitoneal approach was used for debridement and bone graft. However, prolonged infection, adhesive ileus, and small bowel perforation led to a total of 3 reoperations, resulting a colostomy. Three years after the reoperation, she was ambulatory with assistance. Conclusion: We need to follow-up postoperative ASD patients carefully because a single complication can lead to serious consequences.