Gelfoam-induced acute quadriparesis after cervical decompression and fusion

Abstract

Study design: Case report.

Objective: To acknowledge a potential serious complication of Gelfoam use in enclosed space.

Summary of background data: The gelatin sponge has been used for hemostasis in spine surgery. Its complication rate is very low, but it has the potential for compression of vital tissues when left next to the spinal cord within an enclosed space.

Method: Case report.

Results: Retained Gelfoam sponges were found in an enclosed space next to the spinal cord. These expanded and compromised the spinal cord.

Conclusion: There is potential for expansion of the Gelfoam sponge in enclosed spaces after spinal surgery. There is the possibility of neurologic compromise in these cases. Gelfoam should be removed.