T5 Spinal Metastasis from Carcinoma Prostate, Treated with Dorsal Spine Decompression and Fixation

Patient's Initial Condition

Symptoms / Health Concerns

Inability to walk for the past 20 days
Weakness of both legs
Urinary retention requiring a Foley's catheter

Duration of Symptoms

Approximately 20 days (inability to walk and weakness of both legs)

Previous Treatments

Treatment for carcinoma prostate (previous history). No prior surgical treatment for the spine.

Diagnosis

Final Diagnosis

T5 spinal metastasis due to carcinoma prostate, with spinal cord compression causing lower limb weakness.

Tests / Scans / Investigations

MRI of the spine (T2 sagittal and post-contrast axial sequences) to assess the T5 lesion and the extent of spinal cord compression
Intraoperative fluoroscopy (C-arm imaging) to confirm the position of the screws and rods during dorsal spine fixation

Treatment Details

Dorsal spine decompression and pedicle screw-rod fixation for T5 metastasis, with intraoperative fluoroscopic confirmation of implant placement.

Duration: One surgery, with follow-up at 3 months.

Advanced Techniques Used

Intraoperative fluoroscopy (C-arm imaging) for real-time guidance and confirmation of screw and rod placement
Posterior pedicle screw and rod fixation for spinal stabilization
Spinal cord decompression for metastatic cord compression

Results & Recovery

Patient Improvements

Regained lower limb power after surgery
Walked into the clinic on his own at the 3-month follow-up
Returned to his daily activities independently

Case Highlights