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J Neurol Surg Rep 2016; 77(02): e67-e72
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1579631
Case Report
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Osteolysis and Cervical Cord Compression Secondary to Silicone Granuloma Formation around a Dorsal Spinal Cord Stimulator: A Case Report

John R. Dimar II
1   Norton Leatherman Spine Center, Louisville, Kentucky, United States
,
David T. Endriga
1   Norton Leatherman Spine Center, Louisville, Kentucky, United States
,
Leah Y. Carreon
1   Norton Leatherman Spine Center, Louisville, Kentucky, United States
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

13 October 2015

30 December 2015

Publication Date:
17 May 2016 (online)

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Abstract

Spinal cord stimulators (SCSs) have long been in use as a modality for the management of numerous pain pathologies. Along with commonly anticipated morbidities such as displacement, failure (due to fracture or breakage), or infection, there have also been rare but well-documented complications of fibrous scarring, resulting in spinal cord compression. This is the first known case that demonstrates osteolysis and bony destruction of the vertebrae adjacent to the SCS along with the foreign-body granulomatous reaction. A 61-year-old man who underwent prior posterior cervical implantation with an SCS followed by multiple revisions presented with progressive paresthesias, numbness, and weakness of his upper extremities 10 years later. The SCS was removed followed by decompression, and instrumented fusion of the cervical spine. Histopathologic analysis reveals foreign-body reaction to the SCS and its silicone debris. Tissue cultures were negative for bacterial, fungal, or mycobacterial infection. No malignancy was seen. The current case illustrates the inherent possibility of foreign-body granulomatous reactions with SCS and its silicone particulate matter, made unique in this instance by the associated bony destruction of the adjacent vertebrae.

Keywords

spinal cord stimulator complications - silicone granuloma - osteolysis secondary to silicone implants
 

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