Respiratory failure following intercostal nerve blockade.
A case of respiratory failure following postoperative intercostal nerve blockade is described. A possible mechanism is postulated and the evidence in favour of intercostal blockade in patients with chronic airways disease is questioned. The need for caution when managing such patients with regional blockade is emphasised.
D000368:Aged; D006801:Humans; D007367:Intercostal Nerves; D008173:Lung Diseases, Obstructive / Q000150:complications; D008297:Male; D009407:Nerve Block / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000628:therapy; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000209:etiology*; D013900:Thoracic Nerves