Perioperative recognition and management of rare irrigation-related complications in unilateral biportal endoscopy under general anesthesia: two case reports.

Abstract

Background: Unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) is a widely used minimally invasive technique for treating lumbar disc herniation, employing continuous fluid infusion to maintain a clear surgical field. However, complications related to fluid infusion can occur rarely during or after the procedure, presenting significant challenges in perioperative management.

Case presentations: Here, we report two cases of postoperative irrigation-related complications. The first patient developed autonomic dysregulation, which rapidly progressed to a seizure. The second patient experienced acute respiratory failure, which posed an immediate life threat. Both patients were conservatively managed with sedation, analgesia, and respiratory support. The key therapeutic intervention was prompt dehydration to reduce spinal cord pressure. Both patients had a favorable recovery with no long-term sequelae.

Conclusions: UBE is a highly effective, minimally invasive treatment, but irrigation-related complications can be life-threatening. This report highlights the need for anesthesiologists to promptly identify and manage such complications, offering valuable insights for clinical care in similar high-risk situations.