Latent Spinal Implant Infection During Pregnancy: A Case Report.

Abstract

Deep spinal surgical site infections (SSIs) following spine surgery pose a significant concern, with management becoming even more complex and high-risk in pregnant patients with spinal instrumentation. The optimal approach to managing this rare scenario remains unclear. We present the case of a 33-year-old pregnant woman who developed a delayed, deep spinal SSI several years after undergoing instrumented fusion for scoliosis. Due to her pregnancy, intervention was deferred until the postpartum period. A multidisciplinary team successfully managed the case with extensive debridement, removal of all instrumentation, and subsequent antibiotic therapy. This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex SSIs during pregnancy. Given the limited data available, we advocate for individualized treatment decisions guided by a thorough risk-benefit analysis. Further research is needed to establish evidence-based guidelines for managing SSIs in this unique patient population.