Abstract
Objective is to evaluate the risk factors and possible mechanism in cases of postoperative visual loss. Method. We report two patients with spine surgery (discectomy, laminectomy) and stress the intraoperative factors which can predispose to postoperative visual loss. Results. The two patients had a single common factor: prone position with the head turned to the right. They had partial visual loss to the left eye. The first patient had as possible risk factors diabetes mellitus and intraoperative blood loss. Conclusions. It is necessary correct positioning of the patient head on the operative table to avoid pressure on orbit with increased intraocular pressure and decreased perfusion pressure of the eye. It is also necessary to recognize the risk factors which can contribute to the occurrence of this complication.
