Management of an epidural abscess after continuous epidural catheter infusion.
OBJECTIVE
To increase awareness of the possibility of epidural infection after continuous epidural infusion. Outline the salient diagnostic features of epidural infection. Outline a strategy to manage epidural infection and minimize morbidity.


METHODS
Academic multidisciplinary pain clinic.


METHODS
A patient with a left knee meniscal tear with a history of Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome Type I (CRPS I) of the left foot.


METHODS
Attempted control of CRPS I symptoms with a tunnelled epidural catheter infusion.


CONCLUSIONS
The patient developed an epidural abscess diagnosed on the 11th postoperative day. The catheter was removed and the patient was treated successfully with intravenous antibiotics.
Malak
O A
OA
Pain Management Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Mossad
S B
SB
Mekhail
N A
NA