Clinical Characterization of Lymphatic Leakage Complicating OLIF Surgery.

STUDY

DESIGN

This is a narrative review and case report.

OBJECTIVE

To summarise and share relevant treatment experiences by analysing the clinical features of lymphatic leakage occurring after oblique approach retroperitoneal lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF), with a view to providing reference and guidance for clinical practice.

METHODS

Clinical data of 3 patients with lymphatic leakage after OLIF surgery from December 2018 to April 2024 in the International Zhuang Medicine Hospital affiliated to Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine were retrospectively analysed.

RESULTS

Through postoperative bed rest, change of body position, regulation of diet and other treatments, postoperative lymphatic leakage was effectively controlled, and all 3 patients recovered and were discharged from the hospital.

CONCLUSION

Surgical operation damage to lymphatic vessels is an important cause of postoperative lymphatic leakage, nonsurgical treatment should be the first choice for treating lymphatic leakage, and strengthening high-protein diet is the key to treating lymphatic leakage.