What finding indicates a complication following a lumbar laminectomy?

Following a lumbar laminectomy, the presence of clear drainage from the dressings is significant because it may indicate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. This could be a complication of the surgery, as CSF should ideally remain contained within the central nervous system. A CSF leak can occur if the dura mater, which encases the spinal cord and contains the CSF, is inadvertently punctured or not completely sealed during the procedure. Symptoms associated with CSF leakage can include headache, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes even an increase in the risk of infection.

In contrast, other findings such as increased abdominal girth could suggest fluid retention or other complications unrelated to the surgical site, while flushed skin on the face may indicate systemic reactions not directly linked to the laminectomy. Elevated blood pressure could result from a variety of factors, including pain or anxiety, which may not necessarily signal a surgical complication specific to the lumbar laminectomy. Therefore, the presence of clear drainage is the most direct and concerning sign of a potential complication following this specific surgical procedure.