E-ISSN: 1019-5157
ISSN: 2651-5024
Clinical Quiz
SEVERE PERIPHERAL NERVE INJURY DUE TO ELECTRICAL SHOCK FROM A BIPOLAR FORCEPS AS AN OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD FOR A NEUROSURGEON: A SELF EXPERIENCE
İdris Avcı✉ ,
Kemal Paksoy ,
Mustafa Kürklü ,
Mehmet Bozkurt ,
Ahmet Heydar ,
Hale Tüzün ,
Ümit Dinçer ,
Mehmet Emre Günaydın ,
Salim Şentürk ,
Onur Yaman
DOI: 10.5137/1019-5149.JTN.48140-24.2
Article in Press
Corresponding Author:
İdris Avcı (dr.idrisavci@gmail.com)
Abstract
Introduction: We describe a rare instance of severe peripheral nerve injury caused by electrical shock from bipolar forceps during surgery, highlighting the challenges in treatment and recovery. This unique occupational hazard for a neurosurgeon underscores the need for awareness and strategies to address such rare incidents.
Case Presentation: A 35-year-old male neurosurgeon experienced a sudden electrical shock in his right arm while using bipolar forceps during lumbar decompression surgery. This incident led to immediate tremors, followed by intense muscle contractions and severe, unmanageable pain in the right upper extremity resulting in severe median nerve compression and brachial plexitis. Despite conservative treatments, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, exosomes, ozone therapy, and nerve blocks, the patients symptoms persisted. He ultimately underwent surgical decompression of the median nerve and neurolysis, which resulted in pain relief and improved function.
Discussion: This case exemplifies an uncommon form of peripheral nerve injury from a closed-circuit electrical device, traditionally considered safe in surgical environments. Severe complications, such as prolonged neuropathic pain and muscle contractions, required a multidisciplinary approach. Conservative measures were initially applied, but surgical intervention was ultimately necessary to address persistent symptoms and restore function. Electrical injury from bipolar forceps presents a complex therapeutic challenge with limited precedent in medical literature. This case emphasizes the importance of early decompression in managing electrical-induced nerve compression and the potential role of adjunct therapies in optimizing outcomes. Further research is warranted to develop standardized treatment protocols for rare electrical injuries in peripheral nerve injury cases.
Case Presentation: A 35-year-old male neurosurgeon experienced a sudden electrical shock in his right arm while using bipolar forceps during lumbar decompression surgery. This incident led to immediate tremors, followed by intense muscle contractions and severe, unmanageable pain in the right upper extremity resulting in severe median nerve compression and brachial plexitis. Despite conservative treatments, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, exosomes, ozone therapy, and nerve blocks, the patients symptoms persisted. He ultimately underwent surgical decompression of the median nerve and neurolysis, which resulted in pain relief and improved function.
Discussion: This case exemplifies an uncommon form of peripheral nerve injury from a closed-circuit electrical device, traditionally considered safe in surgical environments. Severe complications, such as prolonged neuropathic pain and muscle contractions, required a multidisciplinary approach. Conservative measures were initially applied, but surgical intervention was ultimately necessary to address persistent symptoms and restore function. Electrical injury from bipolar forceps presents a complex therapeutic challenge with limited precedent in medical literature. This case emphasizes the importance of early decompression in managing electrical-induced nerve compression and the potential role of adjunct therapies in optimizing outcomes. Further research is warranted to develop standardized treatment protocols for rare electrical injuries in peripheral nerve injury cases.
Keywords
electrical injury
peripheral nerve injury
median nerve