Spinal epidural hematoma after removal of an epidural catheter: case report and review of the literature

Literature review of spinal hematoma case reports: causes and outcomes in pediatric, obstetric, neuraxial and pain medicine cases

BACKGROUND

The risk of spinal epidural hematoma (SEH) has been described in the literature but the impact in various patient populations has not been assessed in the same study. We identified the risk factors for SEH and calculated the OR for recovery in the pediatric, adult and obstetric (OB) patients based on the degree of neurological deficit before surgery.

METHODS

Adult non-OB cases were categorized whether they were on anticoagulants or not; SEH was related to neuraxial or pain procedure; or whether there was adherence to the American Society of Regional Anesthesia (ASRA) guidelines. Eligible cases were identified through PubMed and Embase searches in the English literature from 1954 to July 2022.

RESULTS

A total of 940 cases were evaluated. In the pediatric cases, SEH was typically spontaneous, related to coagulopathy or athletic trauma. OB cases were spontaneous or related to neuraxial injections. Among adults on anticoagulant(s), SEH was mostly spontaneous with no related etiology or related to neuraxial procedure. SEH occurred despite adherence to the ASRA guidelines. Among non-OB adults not on anticoagulants, SEH was due to trauma, neuraxial injections, surgery or other causes. Neurological recovery was related to the degree of neurological deficit before surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data show a preponderance of spontaneous SEH in all patient populations. SEH developed even though the ASRA guidelines were followed, especially in patients on multiple anticoagulants. Patients with less impairment prior to surgery had a higher likelihood of complete recovery, regardless of the interval between surgery and onset of symptoms.

A Report of Cauda Equina Syndrome Caused by Spinal Epidural Hematoma, a Complication of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Management

This case report delves into the infrequent yet substantial occurrence of cauda equina syndrome (CES) arising from a spinal epidural hematoma (SEH), a potential complication during deep vein thrombosis (DVT) treatment. An 83-year-old female patient previously diagnosed with various medical conditions, including moderate spinal stenosis, chronic kidney disease, and chronic lower extremity stasis, was detected with notable iliofemoral DVT during an office-based venous study. The patient was urgently referred to the Emergency Department. Following hospitalization, her cardiologist diagnosed DVT, prompted by the patient's report of significant swelling and pain in the left lower limb over the past week. A venous ultrasound unveiled occlusive DVT originating from the common femoral vein, extending down to the infrapopliteal vessels, with a complete absence of venous Doppler signal. Employing the ClotTriever device (Terumo Corporation, Shibuya City, Tokyo, Japan), a mechanical aspiration thrombectomy procedure, effectively resolved DVT. However, CES was diagnosed in the patient on a subsequent day due to the emergence of SEH. This case underscores the intricate balance required when managing DVT, involving anticoagulation or alternate therapies while acknowledging the potential risk of hemorrhagic complications leading to epidural hematoma and consequent CES. It is crucial for clinicians managing DVT and employing therapeutic strategies to be aware of this infrequent yet pivotal complication. This report highlights the significance of prompt identification and intervention in such cases, emphasizing the need for vigilance and understanding of potential complications during DVT treatment.

Evaluation of the addition of bupivacaine to intrathecal morphine for intraoperative and postoperative pain management in open liver resections

BACKGROUND

Intrathecal morphine is a popular and effective regional technique for pain control after open liver resection, but its delayed analgesic onset makes it less useful for the intraoperative period. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the analgesic efficacy and other secondary benefits of the addition of hyperbaric bupivacaine to intrathecal morphine ± fentanyl. We hypothesized that bupivacaine could serve as an analgesic "bridge" prior to the onset of intrathecal morphine/fentanyl thereby lowering opioid consumption and enhancing recovery.

METHODS

Cumulative intraoperative and postoperative opioid consumption as well as other intra- and postoperative variables were collected and compared between groups receiving intrathecal morphine alone or intrathecal morphine ± hyperbaric bupivacaine.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients were selected for inclusion. Cumulative intraoperative morphine consumption was significantly reduced in the bupivacaine group while other intraoperative parameters such as intravenous fluids, blood loss, and vasopressors did not differ. There was a statistically significant improvement in time to first bowel movement in the experimental group.

DISCUSSION

The intraoperative opioid sparing effects and improved time to bowel function with the addition of hyperbaric bupivacaine to intrathecal morphine may make this technique an easy and low risk method of enhancing recovery after open liver resection.

Spinal epidural hematoma in antiphospholipid syndrome: case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Spinal epidural hematomas are a surgical emergency, the delay in diagnosis can develop devastating sequelae due to its acute and progressive course. If not treated properly, it may lead to death or permanent neurological deficit. It is a rare condition that can occur in patients with hematologic pathology.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case report and literature review of a patient with antiphospholipid syndrome, who undergoes a diagnostic lumbar puncture for probable fungal meningitis. Developed a spinal acute epidural hematoma with neurological involvement that is evidenced in MRI. Urgent surgical decompression was performed with good results.

DISCUSSION

Despite the low incidence of an epidural hematoma in patients who undergo lumbar puncture, it is important to perform a thorough evaluation in any patient with coagulation abnormalities prior and after a lumbar puncture, by reason of the inherent possibility of developing an epidural hematoma at the site of the procedure. In the same way, early diagnosis and aggressive treatment is necessary in patients who develop progressive neurological symptoms to limit the damage and improve the prognosis for neurological recovery.

Incidence and Risk Factors of Coagulation Profile Derangement After Liver Surgery: Implications for the Use of Epidural Analgesia-A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Hepatic surgery is a major abdominal surgery. Epidural analgesia may decrease the incidence of postoperative morbidities. Hemostatic disorders frequently occur after hepatic resection. Insertion or withdrawal (whether accidental or not) of an epidural catheter during coagulopathic state may cause an epidural hematoma. The aim of the study is to determine the incidence of coagulopathy after hepatectomy, interfering with epidural catheter removal, and to identify the risk factors related to coagulopathy.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of a prospective, multicenter, observational database including patients over 18 years old with a history of liver resection. Main collected data were the following: age, preexisting cirrhosis, Child-Pugh class, preoperative and postoperative coagulation profiles, extent of liver resection, blood loss, blood products transfused during surgery. International normalized ratio (INR) ≥1.5 and/or platelet count <80,000/mm defined coagulopathy according to the neuraxial anesthesia guidelines. A logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between selected factors and a coagulopathic state after hepatic resection.

RESULTS

One thousand three hundred seventy-one patients were assessed. Seven hundred fifty-nine patients had data available about postoperative coagulopathy, which was observed in 53.5% [95% confidence interval, 50.0-57.1]. Maximum derangement in INR occurred on the first postoperative day, and platelet count reached a trough peak on postoperative days 2 and 3. In the multivariable analysis, preexisting hepatic cirrhosis (odds ratio [OR] = 2.49 [1.38-4.51]; P = .003), preoperative INR ≥1.3 (OR = 2.39 [1.10-5.17]; P = .027), preoperative platelet count <150 G/L (OR = 3.03 [1.77-5.20]; P = .004), major hepatectomy (OR = 2.96 [2.07-4.23]; P < .001), and estimated intraoperative blood loss ≥1000 mL (OR = 1.85 [1.08-3.18]; P = .025) were associated with postoperative coagulopathy.

CONCLUSIONS

Coagulopathy is frequent (53.5% [95% confidence interval, 50.0-57.1]) after liver resection. Epidural analgesia seems safe in patients undergoing minor hepatic resection without preexisting hepatic cirrhosis, showing a normal preoperative INR and platelet count.

Risk Factors and Management for Biliary Complications Following Adult Living-Donor Liver Transplantation

BACKGROUND Biliary complications (BCs) following liver transplantation are very serious. Nevertheless, it is still uncertain which components influence the incidence of BCs the most. MATERIAL AND METHODS A consecutive sample of 74 adult recipients who underwent living-donor liver transplantation were enrolled in this study. BCs that were Clavien-Dindo classification grade II or higher were determined as BCs. RESULTS There were 11 out of the 74 recipients who experienced BCs. There were no differences in preoperative background factors between the BCs+ and BCs- group. Unexpectedly, the number of bile duct orifices did not contribute to the BCs (p=0.722). In comparison with the BCs- group, the frequency of post-operative bleeding requiring re-operation was relatively higher (27.3% vs. 7.9%, p=0.0913) and this complication was the only independent risk factor (p=0.0238) for the onset of BCs. Many of the BCs+ recipients were completely treated by endoscopic or radiological intervention (81.8%). However, surgical revision was required for 2 recipients (18.2%). CONCLUSIONS Given these results, it is reasonable to believe that definite hemostasis is required to prevent future BCs. In addition, bile duct multiplicity was not associated with BCs.

Risk Factors and Management for Biliary Complications Following Adult Living-Donor Liver Transplantation

BACKGROUND Biliary complications (BCs) following liver transplantation are very serious. Nevertheless, it is still uncertain which components influence the incidence of BCs the most. MATERIAL AND METHODS A consecutive sample of 74 adult recipients who underwent living-donor liver transplantation were enrolled in this study. BCs that were Clavien-Dindo classification grade II or higher were determined as BCs. RESULTS There were 11 out of the 74 recipients who experienced BCs. There were no differences in preoperative background factors between the BCs+ and BCs- group. Unexpectedly, the number of bile duct orifices did not contribute to the BCs (p=0.722). In comparison with the BCs- group, the frequency of post-operative bleeding requiring re-operation was relatively higher (27.3% vs. 7.9%, p=0.0913) and this complication was the only independent risk factor (p=0.0238) for the onset of BCs. Many of the BCs+ recipients were completely treated by endoscopic or radiological intervention (81.8%). However, surgical revision was required for 2 recipients (18.2%). CONCLUSIONS Given these results, it is reasonable to believe that definite hemostasis is required to prevent future BCs. In addition, bile duct multiplicity was not associated with BCs.

Neuraxial blocks and spinal haematoma: Review of 166 case reports published 1994–2015. Part 1: Demographics and risk-factors

Background

Bleeding into the vertebral canal causing a spinal haematoma (SH) is a rare but serious complication to central neuraxial blocks (CNB). Of all serious complications to CNBs such as meningitis, abscess, cardiovascular collapse, and nerve injury, neurological injury associated with SH has the worst prognosis for permanent harm. Around the turn of the millennium, the first guidelines were published that aimed to reduce the risk of this complication. These guidelines are based on known risk factors for SH, rather than evidence from randomised, controlled trials (RCTs). RCTs, and therefore meta-analysis of RCTs, are not appropriate for identifying rare events. Analysing published case reports of rare complications may at least reveal risk factors and can thereby improve management of CNBs. The aims of the present review were to analyse case reports of SH after CNBs published between 1994 and 2015, and compare these with previous reviews of case reports.

Methods

MEDLINE and EMBASE were used for identifying case reports published in English, German, or Scandinavian languages, using appropriate search terms. Reference lists were also scrutinised for case reports. Twenty different variables from each case were specifically searched for and filled out on an Excel spreadsheet, and incidences were calculated using the number of informative reports as denominator for each variable.

Results

Altogether 166 case reports on spinal haematoma after CNB published during the years between 1994 and 2015 were collected. The annual number of case reports published during this period almost trebled compared with the two preceding decades. This trend continued even after the first guidelines on safe practice of CNBs appeared around year 2000, although more cases complied with such guidelines during the second half of the observation period (2005–2015) than during the first half. Three types of risk factors dominated:(1)Patient-related risk factors such as haemostatic and spinal disorders, (2) CNB-procedure-related risks such as complicated block, (3) Drug-related risks, i.e. medication with antihaemostatic drugs.

Conclusions and implications

The annual number of published cases of spinal haematoma after central neuraxial blocks increased during the last two decades (1994–2015) compared to previous decades. Case reports on elderly women account for this increase.Antihaemostatic drugs, heparins in particular, are still major risk factors for developing post-CNB spinal bleedings. Other risk factors are haemostatic and spinal disorders and complicated blocks, especially “bloody taps”, whereas multiple attempts do not seem to increase the risk of bleeding. In a large number of cases, no risk factor was reported. Guidelines issued around the turn of the century do not seem to have affected the number of published reports. In most cases, guidelines were followed, especially during the second half of the study period. Thus, although guidelines reduce the risk of a post-CNB spinal haematoma, and should be strictly adhered to in every single case, they are no guarantee against such bleedings to occur.

Coagulative safety of epidural catheters after major upper gastrointestinal surgery: advanced and routine coagulation analysis in 38 patients

BACKGROUND

The risk of spinal haematoma in patients receiving epidural catheters is estimated using routine coagulation tests, but guidelines are inconsistent in their recommendations on what to do when results indicate slight hypocoagulation. Postoperative patients are prone to thrombosis, and thromboelastometry has previously shown hypercoagulation in this setting. We aimed to better understand perioperative haemostasis by comparing results from routine and advanced tests, hypothesizing that patients undergoing major upper gastrointestinal surgery would be deficient in vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors because of malnutrition, or hypocoagulative because of accumulation of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH).

METHODS

Thirty-eight patients receiving epidural analgesia for major upper gastrointestinal surgery were included. We took blood at the time of preoperative epidural catheterization and at catheter withdrawal. Prothrombin time-international normalized ratio (PT-INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and platelet count (Plc) were analysed, and also albumin, proteins induced by vitamin K absence (PIVKA-II), rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM®), multiple electrode aggregometry (Multiplate®) and activities of factors II, VII, IX, X, XI, XII and XIII.

RESULTS

Postoperative coagulation was characterized by thrombocytosis and hyperfibrinogenaemia. Mean PT-INR increased significantly from 1.0 ± 0.1 to 1.2 ± 0.2 and mean aPTT increased significantly from 27 ± 3 to 30 ± 4 s. Activity of vitamin K-dependent factors did not decrease significantly: FIX and FX activity increased. FXII and FXIII decreased significantly. Mean Plc increased from 213 ± 153 × 10⁶/L while all mean ROTEM-MCFs (maximal clot firmnesses) especially FIBTEM-MCF increased significantly to above the reference interval. All mean ROTEM® clotting times were within their reference intervals both before and after surgery. ROTEM® (HEPTEM minus INTEM) results were spread around 0. There were significant correlations between routine tests and the expected coagulation factors, but not any of the viscoelastic parameters or PIVKA-II. Multiplate® area under curve and EXTEM-MCF correlated significantly to Plc as did EXTEM-MCF to fibrinogen, FIX, FX and FXIII; and FIBTEM-MCF to Plc, FII, FXI and FXIII.

CONCLUSIONS

The increase in PT-INR may be caused by decreased postoperative FVII while the elevated aPTT may be caused by low FXII. The mild postoperative hypocoagulation indicated by routine tests is not consistent with thromboelastometry. The relevance of ROTEM® and Multiplate® in the context of moderately increased routine tests remains unclear. Trial registration number is not applicable since this is not a clinical trial.

Delayed Onset of Subdural Hematoma following Epidural Catheter Breakage

Study Design Case report. Objectives To describe a case of delayed-onset spinal hematoma following the breakage of a spinal epidural catheter. Methods The authors describe the clinical case review. Results A 64-year-old woman had undergone epidural anesthesia 18 years before she was referred to our hospital because of lower-back pain and lower neurologic deficit with leg pain. The clinical examination showed the presence of a fragment of an epidural catheter in the thoracolumbar canal, as assessed by computed tomography, and a spinal hematoma that compressed the spinal cord at the same spinal level, as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging. Surgical removal of the epidural catheter and decompression surgery were performed. The patient exhibited substantial clinical improvement 1 month after surgery; she achieved a steady gait without the need for a cane and had no leg pain. Conclusion This is the first report of delayed onset of spinal hematoma following the breakage of an epidural catheter. Generally, when the breakage of an epidural catheter occurs without symptoms, follow-up alone is recommended. However, because spinal hematoma might exhibit a late onset, the possibility of this complication should be considered when deciding whether to remove the catheter fragment. We believe that in our patient, there could be a relationship between the catheter fragment and subdural hematoma, and catheter breakage could have been a risk factor for the spinal hematoma.

Thromboelastometry versus free-oscillation rheometry and enoxaparin versus tinzaparin: an in-vitro study comparing two viscoelastic haemostatic tests' dose-responses to two low molecular weight heparins at the time of withdrawing epidural catheters from ten patients after major surgery

Background

Monitoring low molecular weight heparins (LMWH’s) in the perioperative period is prudent in patients at high risk of coagulative complications, especially when the patient has an epidural catheter requiring withdrawal, which is associated with the risk of spinal haematoma. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro dose-responses of two different LMWH’s on two different viscoelastic haemostatic tests, using blood sampled from patients with normal routine coagulation parameters, on the day after major surgery when their epidural catheters were due to be withdrawn.

Methods

Enoxaparin or tinzaparin were added in vitro to blood from ten patients who had undergone oesophageal resection, to obtain plasma concentrations of approximately 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 IU/mL. Coagulation was monitored using thromboelastometry (ROTEM®) using the InTEM® activating reagent; and free oscillation rheometry (FOR: ReoRox®), activated using thromboplastin. Clot initiation was measured using ROTEM-CT, ReoRox-COT1 and ReoRox–COT2. Clot propagation was measured using ROTEM-CFT, ROTEM-Alpha Angle and ReoRox-Slope. Clot stability was measured using ROTEM-MCF and ReoRox-G’max, and clot lysis was measured using ROTEM-ML and ReoRox-ClotSR.

Results

Clot initiation time assessed by thromboelastometry and FOR was prolonged by increasing concentrations of both LMWH’s (P < 0.01). Equivalent doses of tinzaparin in international units (anti-FXa units) per millilitre prolonged clot initiation more than enoxaparin (P < 0.05). There was significant inter-individual variation – the ranges of CT and COT1 at LMWH-concentrations of 0 and 1.5 IU/mL overlapped. None of the tests reflecting clot formation rate or stability showed a dose–response to either LMWH but clot lysis showed a tentative negative dose–response to the LMWH’s.

Conclusions

Clot initiation time’s dose-dependent prolongation by LMWH’s in this study agrees with previous research, as does tinzaparin’s stronger anti-coagulative effect than enoxaparin at equivalent levels of anti-FXa activity. This casts doubt on the validity of using anti-FXa assays alone to guide dosage of LMWH’s. The significant inter-individual variation in dose–response suggests that the relationship between dose and effect in the postoperative period is complicated. While both ROTEM and FOR may have some role in postoperative monitoring, more research is needed before any conclusion can be made about their clinical usefulness.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12871-015-0145-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Central venous pressure and liver resection: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

A liver resection under low central venous pressure (CVP) has become standard practice; however, the benefits beyond a reduction in blood loss are not well reported. Moreover, the precise method to achieve CVP reduction has not been established. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RTCs) was performed to assess the effects of CVP on clinical outcome and to identify the optimum method of CVP reduction.

METHODS

EMBASE, Medline, PubMed and the Cochrane database were searched for trials comparing low CVP surgery with controls. The primary outcome was post-operative complications within 30 days. Secondary outcomes included estimated blood loss (EBL), blood transfusion rates and length of stay (LOS). Sub-group analysis was performed to assess the CVP reduction method on the outcome.

RESULTS

Eight trials were identified. No difference was observed in the morbidity rate between the high CVP and control groups [odds ratio (OR) = 0.96 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.66, 1.40) P = 0.84, I(2) = 0%]. EBL [weighted mean difference (WMD) = -308.63 ml (95% CI -474.67, -142.58) P = < 0.001, I(2) = 73%] and blood transfusion rates [OR 0.65 (95% CI 0.44, 0.97) P = 0.040, I(2) = 37%] were significantly lower in the low CVP groups. Neither anaesthetic nor surgical methods of CVP reduction were associated with a reduced post-operative morbidity.

CONCLUSION

Low CVP surgery is associated with a reduction in EBL; however, this does not translate into an improvement in post-operative morbidity. The optimum method of CVP reduction has not been identified.

Spontaneous recovery of paraplegia caused by spinal epidural hematoma after removal of epidural catheter

We report a patient who developed paraplegia caused by a spinal epidural hematoma after removal of an epidural catheter, which resolved spontaneously. A 60-year-old woman underwent thoracoscopic partial resection of the left lung under general anesthesia combined with epidural anesthesia. She neither was coagulopathic nor had received anticoagulants. Paraplegia occurred 40 minutes after removal of the epidural catheter on the first postoperative day. Magnetic resonance images revealed a spinal epidural hematoma. Surgery was not required as the paraplegia gradually improved until, within 1 hour, it had completely resolved. Hypoesthesia had completely resolved by the third postoperative day.

Estimating the incidence of suspected epidural hematoma and the hidden imaging cost of epidural catheterization: a retrospective review of 43,200 cases

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Hematoma associated with epidural catheterization is rare, but the diagnosis might be suspected relatively frequently. We sought to estimate the incidence of suspected epidural hematoma after epidural catheterization and to determine the associated cost of excluding or diagnosing an epidural hematoma through radiologic imaging.

METHODS

We conducted an electronic retrospective chart review of 43,200 patient charts using 4 distinct search strategies and cost analysis, all from a single academic institution from 2001 through 2009. The charts were reviewed for use of radiologic imaging studies to identify patients with suspected and confirmed epidural hematomas. Costs for imaging to exclude or confirm the diagnosis were related to the entire cohort.

RESULTS

In our analysis, during a 9-year period that included 43,200 epidural catheterizations, 102 patients (1/430) underwent further imaging studies to exclude or confirm the presence of an epidural hematoma-revealing 6 confirmed cases and an overall incidence (per 10,000 epidural blocks) of epidural hematoma of 1.38 (95% confidence interval, 0-0.002). Among our patients, 207 imaging studies, primarily lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging, were performed. Integrating Medicare cost expenditure data, the estimated additional cost during a 9-year period for imaging and hospital charges related to identifying epidural hematomas nets to approximately $232,000 or an additional $5.37 per epidural.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately 1 in 430 patients undergoing epidural catheterization will be suspected to have an epidural hematoma. The cost of excluding the diagnosis, when suspected, is relatively low when allocated across all patients undergoing epidural catheterization.

Rotational thromboelastometry and multiple electrode platelet aggregometry in four patients with abnormal routine coagulation studies before removal of epidural catheters after major surgery: a case series and research study

INTRODUCTION

Routine coagulation tests have a low predictability for perioperative bleeding complications, and spinal hematoma after removal of epidural catheters is very infrequent. Thromboelastometry and point-of-care platelet aggregometry may improve hemostatic monitoring but have not been studied in the context of safety around epidural removal.

METHODS

Twenty patients who received an epidural catheter for major thoracoabdominal and abdominal surgery were included prospectively. In addition to routine coagulation tests, rotational thromboelastometry and multiple electrode platelet aggregometry were carried out.

RESULTS

A coagulation deficit was suggested by routine coagulation tests on the intended day of epidural catheter removal in four out of 20 patients. Prothrombin time-international normalized ratio was elevated to 1.5 in one patient (normal range: 0.9 to 1.2) while rotational thromboelastometry and multiple electrode platelet aggregometry parameters were within normal limits. Activated partial thromboplastin time was elevated to 47 to 50 seconds in the remaining three patients (normal range 28 to 45 seconds). Rotational thromboelastometry showed that one of the patients' results was due to heparin effect: the clotting time with the HEPTEM® activator was 154 seconds as compared to 261 seconds with INTEM. The three remaining patients with prolonged routine coagulation test results had all received over 1L of hydroxyethyl starch (Venofundin®) and thrombosis prophylaxis with low-molecular-weight heparin (enoxaparin). Rotational thromboelastometry and multiple electrode platelet aggregometrygave normal or hypercoagulative signals in most patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This case series is new in that it examines rotational thromboelastometry and multiple electrode platelet aggregometry postoperatively in the context of epidural analgesia and shows that they may be clinically useful. These methods should be validated before they can be used for standard patient care.

Arteriovenous fistula and pseudoaneurysm of the anterior spinal artery caused by an epidural needle in a 5-year-old patient

Authors present the case of a 5-year-old patient with a spinal arteriovenous fistula (AVF) and pseudoaneurysm of the anterior spinal artery (ASA) caused by a traumatic epidural needle stick injury. A discussion and relevant review of the literature follow. The boy had a remote history of a liver transplant and required neuraxial blockade for an unrelated abdominal surgical procedure. Initial insertion of the epidural needle at the T9-10 interspace yielded blood. A second attempt at T10-11 was successful. Delayed left leg weakness developed on postoperative Day 8, with an MR image showing a track injury through the cord and a ventral subarachnoid hematoma. Laminectomies from T-9 to T-11were performed emergently to decompress the spinal cord. The dura mater was opened, the ventral hematoma was evacuated, and brisk venous bleeding was controlled with cauterization. Postoperative spinal angiography demonstrated an AVF and pseudoaneurysm of the ASA. Repeat angiography at postoperative Week 4 demonstrated complete resolution of the AVF and pseudoaneurysm, probably due to intraoperative cauterization of the draining vein. The patient underwent a short course of rehabilitation and had no clinical or electrophysiological evidence of spinal cord damage at the 20-month follow-up. One should be cognizant of the possibility of a cord injury in a patient with new-onset neurological deficits following an interventional spine procedure. Neuroimaging is essential for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Epidural hematoma occurred by massive bleeding intraoperatively in cesarean section after combined spinal epidural anesthesia -A case report-

We describe a case of acute lumbar epidural hematoma at the L2-3 level complicated by paraplegia, which occurred after coagulation disorder because of massive bleeding intraoperatively in cesarean section. The preoperative coagulation laboratory finding was in normal range and so we tried combined spinal epidural anesthesia. Uterine atony occurred in the operation, and there was persistant bleeding during and after the operation. After the operation, she complained of paresthesia on her both legs and was diagnosed with epidural hematoma (EDH) by radiologic examination. Emergency laminectomy on lumbar spine was carried out for hematoma evacuation and decompression of the epidural space at once. In our experience, massive bleeding during surgery may potentially increase the risk of EDH postoperatively.

Spinal epidural hematoma following removal of incorrectly placed jugular central venous catheter

The authors report a rare case of iatrogenic spinal epidural hematoma associated with central venous catheter cannulation via the right internal jugular vein. This 59-year-old man was operated on for stomach cancer while under general anesthesia. A central venous line was inserted via the right internal jugular vein. The operation was completed uneventfully and postoperative fluid replacement was continued without interruption. On postoperative Day 2, marked swelling around the right side of his neck gradually worsened. Cervical CT demonstrated that the catheter tip of the central venous line had penetrated the jugular vein and entered the intervertebral foramen (C5-6), thereby reaching the spinal epidural space. The patient was immediately transported to the operating room and the catheter was carefully extracted under fluoroscopy. Several minutes after catheter removal, the patient complained of sudden severe back pain and over time developed mild paraparesis of both lower extremities. Urgent MR imaging of the spine revealed a large spinal epidural hematoma extending from C-1 to T-8 that was compressing the dorsal spinal cord. The patient underwent emergency surgical removal of the epidural hematoma as well as spinal cord decompression with a T1-4 laminectomy. After surgery, the patient showed full recovery of his lower-extremity motor function.

A case of late epidural hematoma in a patient on clopidogrel therapy postoperatively: when is it safe to resume antiplatelet agents?

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

The use of antiplatelet agents after coronary artery stent placement is currently recommended to prevent coronary stent obstruction. These patients may have concurrent disabling spinal stenosis and require spinal decompression. Resuming antiplatelet agents as soon as possible after spinal surgery is recommended.

PURPOSE

To describe a unique case of late postoperative epidural hematoma occurring with the use of clopidogrel.

STUDY DESIGN

A case report and review of the literature.

METHODS

The hospital chart, history, physical examination, and imaging of a single patient were reviewed.

RESULTS

A 59-year-old man underwent spinal decompression and fusion for neurogenic claudication with lumbar spinal stenosis and spondylolisthesis while managed on clopidogrel for prevention of thrombosis after cardiac stent placement. He developed a symptomatic epidural hematoma 12 days postoperatively, well outside the usual time frame for this complication. The patient was closely monitored, and lumbar radiculopathy resolved over the ensuing days.

CONCLUSION

After spinal surgery and resumption of antiplatelet therapy, the physician needs to maintain vigilance in observing patients for late postoperative complications such as epidural hematoma, which could have catastrophic consequences if not recognized in a timely manner.

Spinal epidural hematoma after epidural anesthesia in a patient receiving enoxaparin -A case report-

Spinal epidural hematoma is a rare but serious neurological complication of neuraxial anesthesia. Enoxaparin sodium is a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for use in preventing deep venous thrombosis in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty. Hemorrhage is an uncommon but documented adverse reaction when using LMWH. We report a case of epidural hematoma after lumbar epidural anesthesia in a patient who administered enoxaparin in perioperative period.

Epidural bleeding after ACL reconstruction under regional anaesthesia: a case report

Introduction

Epidural bleeding as a complication of catheterization or epidural catheter removal is often associated with perioperative thromboprophylaxis especially in adult reconstructive surgery.

Case presentation

We report on a case of a 19 years old male athlete that underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, receiving low molecular weight heparin for thromboprophylaxis and developed an epidural hematoma and subsequent cauda equina syndrome two days after removal of the epidural catheter. An urgent magnetic resonance imaging scan revealed an epidural hematoma from the level of L3 to L4. Emergent decompression and hematoma evacuation resulted in patient's significant neurological improvement immediately postoperatively.

Conclusion

A high index of clinical suspicion and surgical intervention are necessary to prevent such potentially disabling complications especially after procedures on a day-case basis and early patient's discharge.

Combined epidural and general anesthesia for paediatric renal transplantation-a single center experience

BACKGROUND

Appropriate anesthesia for pediatric renal transplantation requires stable intraoperative hemodynamics, optimal perfusion of the newly transplanted kidney and good analgesia during recovery. The aim of this study was to assess the preliminary application, success and safety of combined epidural and general anesthesia in pediatric renal transplantation in a small cohort.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the anesthesia records of 46 consecutive pediatric patients who received renal transplantation under combined epidural and general anesthesia from January 2003-2007.

RESULTS

The mean patient age and weight were 13.2 +/- 2.4 years and 25.7 +/- 5.46 kg, respectively. The infused crystalloids, 20% albumin and red blood cell concentrates were 120 +/- 2 mL/kg to achieve a CVP of 13 to 15 mm Hg. Brisk diuresis was observed in all patients. Epidural tramadol (2 mg/kg) provided good postoperative analgesia in 89% patients. 15% patients developed radiological evidence of pulmonary edema, only one required mechanical ventilation for hypoxemia. Minor adverse effects were nausea and vomiting (17.5%) and convulsions (8.5%). No perioperative mortality or major morbidity was recorded.

CONCLUSION

Epidural anesthesia is a useful adjunct to general anesthesia due to stable intraoperative haemodynamics and good postoperative analgesia.

Symptomatisches epidurales Hämatom unter therapeutischer Heparinisierung

A 55-year-old patient with severe arterial occlusive disease underwent a femoral artery bypass operation under combined spinal-epidural anaesthesia. Platelet count and coagulation tests were normal after phenprocoumon had been discontinued. The epidural catheter was removed on day 1 while the patient was under therapeutic dose heparin. On day 2 he complained about lower back pain going down both legs and tendon reflexes were absent on the left side. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed a lumbar epidural haematoma, which together with a previously existing protrusion of the fourth lumbar disc, compressed the cauda equina. A neurosurgical consultation recommended a conservative approach. The symptoms resolved spontaneously and the patient was discharged in good condition 12 days after the operation.