{"id":"e434efcd-5fca-4258-88fd-e97005c826a8","slug":"suction-induced-intradural-nerve-root-kinking-following-lumbar-decompression-a-rare-mechanical-complication-with-radiographic-resolution","title":"Suction-induced intradural nerve root kinking following lumbar decompression: A rare mechanical complication with radiographic resolution","authors":["Navin Philip Verghese","Bashar Altunbi","Oludare Ashaolu"],"abstract":"Background: Postoperative radiculopathy following lumbar decompression is typically attributed to hematoma, residual stenosis, or nerve injury. However, suction drain-induced nerve root kinking is a rarely reported cause of new radicular complaints. Case Description: A 67-year-old man underwent standard lumbar decompression with drain placement. Postoperatively, he developed new-onset radicular symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an intradural nerve root deviation toward the drain site. Symptoms resolved rapidly after suction drain removal, and follow-up imaging confirmed the restoration of the normal intradural roots position. Conclusion: This case highlights how, following a routine lumbar laminectomy, epidural suction drainage can cause intradural nerve root kinking, which resolves with drain removal.","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/e434efcd-5fca-4258-88fd-e97005c826a8/featured/hero-1781558244040.png","publishDate":"2025-10-31T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.25259/SNI_1022_2025","categories":["Unique Case Observations","Case Report"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/api/articles/e434efcd-5fca-4258-88fd-e97005c826a8/pdf"}