title: Pleural puncture: an unusual complication of a thoracic epidural.
abstract: Thoracic epidural analgesia is a common method of pain relief for major thoracic and abdominal surgery. Numerous complications may occur, including temporary or permanent neurological injury. A rare and potentially life-threatening complication of thoracic epidural analgesia is pleural puncture by the needle or the catheter. Such a case is presented and pleural puncture in association with attempted thoracic epidural catheter placement is discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anaesthetics and Intensive Care Medicine, Palmerston North Hospital, Private Bag 11036, Palmerston North, Manawatu 5301, New Zealand.
authors.forename: P P
authors.initials: PP
authors.lastname: Grieve
authors.forename: R K
authors.initials: RK
authors.lastname: Whitta
mesh_terms: D000767:Anesthesia, Epidural / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000779:Anesthetics, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage; D002045:Bupivacaine / Q000008:administration & dosage; D002404:Catheterization; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010994:Pleura / Q000293:injuries*; D011677:Punctures; D013274:Stomach Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D035441:Thoracic Wall
chemical_list: D000779:Anesthetics, Local; D002045:Bupivacaine