# Hemicorporectomy in the ICU: a complex case report

## TL;DR

This case report details the intensive care management of a patient who underwent a rare surgical procedure called hemicorporectomy for a pelvic tumor.

## Contribution

The report highlights the challenges and management strategies in ICU care following hemicorporectomy for intrapelvic chordoma.

## Key findings

- The patient experienced multiple postoperative complications including tachycardia, pneumonia, and sepsis.
- Antifungal therapy successfully treated a Candida parapsilosis infection at the wound site.
- Multidisciplinary care was crucial in stabilizing the patient for transfer to orthopedic care after two months.

## Abstract

This case report presents the intensive care management of a 65-year-old male patient who underwent hemicorporectomy due to advanced intrapelvic chordoma. Early postoperative complications included supraventricular tachycardia, ventilator-associated pneumonia, and sepsis, while late complications involved wound infection, fluid management challenges, and pleural effusion. Candida parapsilosis was isolated from the wound site, and clinical improvement was achieved with antifungal therapy. After a two-month intensive care stay, the patient was stabilized and transferred to the orthopedic department. This report highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and intensive care management following hemicorporectomy.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12871-025-03184-x.