Which of the following is NOT a potential complication associated with lumbar pedicle screw placement?

Prepare for the ABRET CNIM Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with explanations. Ready yourself for the exam day!

Lumbar pedicle screw placement is a surgical technique used in spinal surgeries, and while it can be associated with several complications, certain outcomes are more closely linked to specific procedures or types of spinal interventions. Quadriplegia, which refers to paralysis of all four limbs, is not typically associated with lumbar pedicle screw placement since this procedure generally targets the lower part of the spine (lumbar region), which does not directly impact the cervical spine where quadriplegia would originate from, due to injury or trauma to the spinal cord in that area.

On the other hand, complications such as pain and weakness, radiculopathy, and foot drop are more directly relevant to lumbar surgeries. Pain and weakness can arise from various factors including muscle damage or irritation during surgery. Radiculopathy, characterized by nerve root compression, can occur due to improper screw placement or other surgical mishaps. Foot drop, a condition due to weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot, can result from nerve injury or compression related to the surgical procedure performed at the lumbar level. Thus, while complications can arise from lumbar pedicle screw placements, quadriplegia is not a relevant risk for this specific intervention.

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