Extraction of guide wire breakage from pedicle channel during percutaneous endoscopic posterior lumbar interbody fusion: a case report

TL;DR

A rare case of guidewire breakage during spinal surgery is reported, with successful removal using endoscopic techniques.

Contribution

Presents a novel retrieval method for fractured guidewires during PE-PLIF, emphasizing prevention and management strategies.

Findings

A fractured guidewire was successfully retrieved using endoscopic grasping forceps after pedicle screw removal.

Fluoroscopy confirmed complete removal of the guidewire fragment.

The case underscores the need for careful instrument handling to avoid intraoperative complications.

Abstract

This report presents a rare case of guidewire fracture during percutaneous endoscopic posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PE-PLIF) and describes the successful retrieval technique. A 49-year-old male with lumbar stenosis and spondylolisthesis underwent PE-PLIF, during which fluoroscopy identified a fractured guidewire within the vertebral body. The fragment was retrieved using endoscopic grasping forceps after removing the pedicle screw, and complete removal was confirmed by fluoroscopy. This case highlights the importance of thorough instrument inspection and careful intraoperative handling to prevent and manage such rare complications in spinal surgery.

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