Post-operative central sleep apnoea complicating cervical laminectomy: Case report

Abstract

Breathing disorders following decompressive laminectomy for cervical stenosis are rare. We report a case of postoperative central apnoea following cervical laminectomy, and discuss die aetiology, management and potential relationship between upper cervical surgery and sleep apnoea/ Preoperative evaluation of respiratory function, intraoperative monitoring and caution with sedative and anaesthetic drug use is important and the need for postoperative apnoea monitoring in cases with critical upper cervical compression with compromised breathing is emphasized.

Key Words:

• Cervical decompression
• cervical stenosis
• Ondine's curse
• sleep apnoea