What is a common post-operative complication for a lumbar laminectomy?

Urinary retention is a common post-operative complication following lumbar laminectomy primarily due to the effects of anesthesia and the manipulation of the nerves that innervate the bladder. In surgical procedures involving the lower spine, especially those that impact the lumbar region, there is a risk of transient nerve impairment. This can lead to decreased bladder tone or the inability to sense the need to void, resulting in urinary retention.

Additionally, the use of anesthesia can interfere with the normal bladder function. Post-operative patients may also experience discomfort which can discourage them from attempting to void. Monitoring and assessing urinary output in patients who have undergone a lumbar laminectomy is crucial for timely interventions to manage urinary retention effectively. Other complications, such as pneumonia and decreased gastrointestinal (GI) function, can occur but are not as specifically linked to the lumbar region procedures when compared to urinary retention. Aspiration risk is also less likely since these patients are usually not at high risk of aspiration following spinal surgery.