title: We count but should we scrutinize? An unreported complication in spinal surgery.
abstract: Complications following spinal surgery can range from simple wound infection to complete paralysis. Intraoperative checks have been introduced to account for all the instruments and materials used and help minimize surgeon-related complications. We report a case of a broken osteotome tip within the spinal canal following a routine posterior decompression of the lumbar spine.
authors.affiliation: Croydon University Hospital, Croydon, UK johndabis1@gmail.com.
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Dabis
authors.affiliation: Croydon University Hospital, Croydon, UK.
authors.forename: Hani B
authors.initials: HB
authors.lastname: Abdul-Jabar
authors.affiliation: Croydon University Hospital, Croydon, UK.
authors.forename: Matthew
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.affiliation: Croydon University Hospital, Croydon, UK.
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Kotrba