Central Venous Catheter for Treating Pseudomeningocele Compressing the Spinal Cord After Thoracic Ossification Surgery: Case Series

Abstract

Background: Symptomatic pseudomeningocele (PMC) causing spinal cord compression is a severe complication following spinal surgery. Traditional management remains controversial, with surgical revision carrying significant risks. This study evaluates an innovative minimally invasive approach using central venous catheterization for percutaneous PMC drainage.

Case Presentation: A multicenter case series included 17 patients with thoracic ossifying disease who developed PMC with neurological deterioration postoperatively. Under B-ultrasound guidance, an experienced spinal surgeon performed percutaneous puncture and drainage of the PMC using a central venous catheter system. All patients achieved complete PMC drainage confirmed by MRI, with resolution of spinal cord compression.

Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided central venous catheter drainage is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive alternative for managing PMC-induced spinal cord compression. This technique achieves rapid symptomatic relief, neurological recovery, and durable results without recurrence. Its successful extension to postoperative pseudocyst/abscess drainage suggests broad applicability in spinal complications.

Keywords

central venous catheter / ossifying disease / pseudomeningocele

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