{"id":"97d7aaeb-cb9f-4376-898c-7eb442ef2963","slug":"missing-the-window-might-shut-the-light-forever-central-retinal-artery-occlusion-following-spine-surgery","title":"Missing the ‘window’ might shut the light forever: Central retinal artery occlusion following spine surgery","authors":["Harsimrat Bir Singh Sodhi","Pravin Salunke","Savleen Kaur","Ramandeep Singh"],"abstract":"Background: Postoperative visual loss (POVL) following spine surgery in the prone position is a rare but documented complication. Various mechanisms and risk factors for visual loss have been identified, with permanent loss occurring in most cases. Early detection and treatment can lead to partial recovery of vision. Summary: This letter presents a case of unilateral visual loss due to central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) after spine surgery in a 13-year-old patient. Despite immediate intervention, the visual recovery was only partial. The case emphasizes the importance of timely detection of POVL to improve treatment outcomes. Conclusion: POVL remains a significant concern in spine surgeries performed in the prone position, even with precautions taken. The case highlights the need for caution with opioid analgesia, which may mask visual symptoms and delay treatment, potentially leading to irreversible damage. Keywords: postoperative visual loss, central retinal artery occlusion, spine surgery, prone position, visual recovery, opioid analgesia, risk factors","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/97d7aaeb-cb9f-4376-898c-7eb442ef2963/featured/hero-1782420903408.png","publishDate":"2015-05-25T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.4103/2152-7806.157622","categories":["Letter to the Editor"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/api/articles/97d7aaeb-cb9f-4376-898c-7eb442ef2963/pdf"}