A Case of Hemopneumothorax Due to Pleural Puncture during Posterior Lumbar Spinal Fusion

Abstract

Here we present a case of a hemopneumothorax during posterior lumbar spinal fusion. Hemopneumothorax during posterior lumbar spinal fusion is a rare complication. A 68-year-old woman was diagnosed with degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis and lumbar spinal canal stenosis（L1-5）, and a posterior lumbar spinal fusion surgery was performed as usual. After extubation, oxygen saturation decreased to approximately 92% with 6 L/min oxygen via a facemask, while systolic blood pressure decreased to approximately 80 mmHg. Chest ultrasonography indicated left pneumothorax. Chest X-ray and CT showed left hemopneumothorax. A thoracic drainage tube was immediately inserted in the intensive care unit. Oxygenation and blood pressure gradually recovered. The patient was discharged 28 days after surgery. Chest ultrasonography was very useful for diagnosing perioperative hemopneumothorax during posterior lumbar spinal fusion.