Scrotal pain after lumbar fusion surgery: A rare case report.
Jun Hyun Cho, In-Suk Bae, Hee In Kang et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A patient experienced scrotal and urethral pain following L4-5 lumbar fusion surgery, without new sensory or motor deficits. Initially attributed to Foley catheter insertion, further investigation revealed an L5-S1 epidural hematoma via MRI. The patient underwent urgent surgical evacuation of the hematoma, leading to resolution of the pain.
What made this case unusual
The case highlights scrotal and urethral pain as atypical symptoms of a spinal epidural hematoma, which is rarely associated with such presentations.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider the possibility of an epidural hematoma in patients presenting with scrotal or urethral pain after lumbar surgery, even in the absence of urological abnormalities.
Why it matters
This case underscores the importance of follow-up imaging in postoperative patients who report unusual symptoms, as timely intervention can significantly enhance patient outcomes.