Also known as: Pituitary cyst
Patient presents with subdural hemorrhage, delirium, and severe hyponatremia (sodium 112) caused by a Rathke's cleft cyst on his pituitary. Treatment complications arise when sodium correction is administered too rapidly, causing cerebral edema and delaying surgery.
Also known as: Prolonged erection
Patient presents with sustained priapism following sexual encounter with Meredith. Initial treatments (enema, needle aspiration) fail. Eventually discovered to be caused by a spinal tumor pressing on the cavernous nerve, requiring neurosurgical removal.
Also known as: Tumor in the spine
Tumor on lower spine (S1 vertebra) pressing against cavernous nerve causing priapism. Successfully removed surgically without nerve damage or long-term effects.
Also known as: Twins
Mother pregnant with quintuplets at 32 weeks (already has triplets at home). Develops preterm labor and placental tearing requiring emergency cesarean delivery. Three of the five babies have surgical conditions requiring immediate intervention.
Also known as: Water on the brain
One of the quintuplets has hydrocephalus (cerebrospinal fluid buildup on brain). Will require shunt placement by Dr. Shepherd to drain fluid and prevent brain damage.
Also known as: Underdeveloped left heart
One of the quintuplets has underdeveloped left-side heart chambers and abnormally narrow mitral valve. Will require extensive cardiothoracic surgery by Dr. Burke immediately after birth.
Also known as: External sac of organs
One of the quintuplets has organs growing in a sac outside the body. Dr. Shepherd (Addison) will remove the sac membrane and surgically reposition organs back inside the abdomen.