Recurrent epidural hematoma after thoracic decompression for ligamentum flavum ossificationSurgery for spinal issues can lead to rare bleeding risks

This is a case report and literature review, not a controlled trial, focused on postoperative symptomatic epidural hematoma (PSEH) after thoracic decompression surgery for ossification of the ligamentum flavum.

The authors describe a 64-year-old male who developed recurrent PSEH following thoracic decompression. They cite an incidence of less than 1% for this complication and note that the literature available to guide clinical management is limited.

The report emphasizes early recognition of the complication, prompt surgical intervention, and meticulous management of intraspinal venous hemorrhage. No comparator, primary outcome definition, follow-up duration, or quantitative effect size is reported.

Because the evidence rests on a single case plus a narrative literature review, it cannot establish incidence, risk factors, or comparative management strategies. The findings should be read as illustrative rather than generalizable, and the authors themselves note the limited literature base.

Practice relevance is limited to heightened awareness of this uncommon but serious complication and to the described principles of early recognition and hemorrhage control. No safety data beyond the single adverse event, no discontinuation data, and no funding or conflict of interest information are reported.