title: A review of epidural catheter-related infections.
abstract: Spinal drug delivery is a generally safe and effective therapy for the treatment of both acute and chronic pain. However, it can be occasionally associated with significant complications, including neurologic injury, as a result of bleeding and infection in a confined space. This article focuses on risk factors for developing epidural catheter-related infections as well as strategies to minimize risks. Additionally, the diagnosis and management of epidural catheter-related infections, both superficial and deep, are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Associate Professor, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, OH; Chief, Division of Pain Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, OH. salim.hayek@uhhospitals.org.
authors.forename: Salim M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Hayek
authors.forename: Roger
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Goomber
mesh_terms: D000767:Anesthesia, Epidural / Q000009:adverse effects*; D055499:Catheter-Related Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy / Q000635:transmission; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy / Q000635:transmission; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors; D013997:Time Factors