Suction-induced intradural nerve root kinking following lumbar decompression: A rare mechanical complication with radiographic resolution.

BACKGROUND

Postoperative radiculopathy following lumbar decompression is typically attributed to hematoma, residual stenosis, or nerve injury. However, suction drain-induced nerve root kinking is a rarely reported cause of new radicular complaints.

CASE DESCRIPTION: A 67-year-old man underwent standard lumbar decompression with drain placement. Postoperatively, he developed new-onset radicular symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an intradural nerve root deviation toward the drain site. Symptoms resolved rapidly after suction drain removal, and follow-up imaging confirmed the restoration of the normal intradural roots position.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights how, following a routine lumbar laminectomy, epidural suction drainage can cause intradural nerve root kinking, which resolves with drain removal.