Dangerous sequelae of epidural anesthesia in geriatrics.
These three cases demonstrate: (1) an epidural hematoma (case three); (2) a probable anterior spinal artery occlusion (case two); and (3) a low cord damage of obscure nature (case one). Three serious neurological sequelae after epidural anesthesia among the operated patients of one physician seems alarming. The three occurred within two years. These are published to direct attention to potential risks from epidural anesthesia in older patients.
Hartigan
J D
JD
Creighton School of Medicine, Omaha, NE 68124, USA.
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015360:Analgesia, Epidural / Q000009:adverse effects; D000767:Anesthesia, Epidural / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003110:Colonic Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006407:Hematoma, Epidural, Cranial / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D007720:Knee Prosthesis; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010243:Paralysis / Q000209:etiology*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology*; D012307:Risk Factors; D014648:Varicose Veins / Q000601:surgery*