Post-Discectomy Pyogenic Lumbar Discitis: A Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Post-disctectomy pyogenic lumbar discitis is not common condition in contrast to postoperative wound infection but its presentation is typically non-specific, which can lead to delay in diagnosis and its treatment. In this condition, patients present with low back pain after symptoms free interval. The diagnosis can be established with symptoms, examination, laboratory studies and radiological investigations. Purpose: The aim of this literature review is to evaluate available articles about post- discectomy lumbar spondylodiscitis. we analyse the incidence, risk factors, causative organisms, diagnosis modalities (including clinical features, blood and radiological investigations), management strategies (conservative and surgical) and prevention for postoperative lumbar spondylodiscitis in the published literature. Material and methods: We have reviewed literature articles available on topic of post-discectomy lumbar discitis in PubMed, MEDLINE and Google scholar only in English language; and have been published from the year 2000 onwards. Results: This incidence rate of post-operative discitis is 0.94%. The age range was 38-56 years with a mean age of 45.18±4.17 years. Mean interval between discectomy and establishment of diagnosis was 2-8 weeks. Of all the patients included 61.93% were males and 38.07% were females. The most common organism isolated is staph. aureus (including methicillin sensitive and resistant staph. aureus). Majority of patients were initially treated conservatively. The surgical treatment in patients who fail to respond to conservative management has been demonstrated. Our study showed 40.1% excellent results, 56% good result and 3.9% fair and poor result at final follow up. Conclusion: Although the incidence of post-operative lumbar discitis is rare, it’s associated with morbidity and mortality. The true challenge of post-operative discitis is to diagnose the condition timely. Majority of patients can be treated conservatively and operative management is rarely necessary in the patients with failed conservative treatment. Keywords: Lumbar discectomy, Postoperative pyogenic discitis, Literature review, Treatment