Retroperitoneal Fibrosis after Spinal Surgery

CASE:Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a rare chronic fibroinflammatory disorder with typically unknown etiology (i.e., idiopathic). However, several causes have been identified, including retroperitoneal injury or inflammation. In this study, we describe 2 patients who developed RPF complicated by hydroureteronephrosis after (combined) anterior lower interbody fusion (ALIF) and posterior spine fusion. We also reviewed 6 additional cases from the literature of suspected RPF development after spinal surgery. In these cumulative 8 cases, ALIF was the common denominator.CONCLUSION:RPF may develop after ALIF and should be considered a potential longer term complication of this procedure.