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Case Report: Sulcal artery infarction presenting as incomplete Brown-Séquard syndrome following spinal anesthesia in a 70-year-old female: a rare postoperative neurological complication

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Spinal cord infarction following neuraxial anesthesia is a rare but serious complication. We present the case of a 70-year-old female who developed acute onset of left lower limb weakness immediately following spinal anesthesia administered for total hip replacement. Clinical features were consistent with incomplete Brown-Séquard syndrome. MRI revealed a T2/STIR hyperintense lesion involving the left hemicord at the D12-L1 vertebral level, suggestive of sulcal artery infarction. MRI showed only age-related changes. After a structured physiotherapy program, the patient experienced significant functional improvement and was discharged with stable vitals. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and management of spinal cord infarction in the perioperative setting.

Source: Frontiers in Radiology

DOI: 10.3389/fradi.2025.1672382

Authors: B. T. Kavya, Shweta Raviraj Poojary, Harsha Sundaramurthy

Institutions: JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal

Language: English

Topic: Intraoperative Neuromonitoring and Anesthetic Effects

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,353