Neurological Deficit Secondary to Spinal Cord Ischaemia after Infrarenal Abdominal Aortic Repair for Aorto-Iliac Occlusive Disease: A Case Report☆

Abstract 

Neurological deficit after infrarenal abdominal aortic repair is rare. We report on a patient who had an infrarenal aorto-bifemoral bypass for claudication. Postoperatively, the patient developed a partial anterior spinal artery syndrome (ASAS).

Factors contributing to the development of ASAS were evaluated using contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography of the spinal cord's blood supply. ASAS was probably caused by a temporarily inadequate blood flow to the cord due to intra-operative hypotensive episodes combined with generalised vascular disease. Since treatment options for ASAS are solely supportive, preventive measures are imperative to avoid neurological deficit.

Keywords: Abdominal aortic repair, Adamkiewicz artery, Anterior spinal artery syndrome, Aorto-iliac occlusive disease, Magnetic resonance angiography