Title
Pneumocephalus after Epidural Injection
Publication Date
2018
Journal Title
J Emerg Med
Abstract
© 2017 Elsevier Inc. Background: Pneumocephalus, or air in the intracranial space, is most commonly encountered after trauma or surgery. Epidural injections are commonly performed in obstetrics and pain management. Complications are uncommon and include hemorrhage, cerebrospinal fluid leak, and infection. A rare complication is pneumocephalus, described in only a few case reports of epidural anesthesia. Case Report: We describe a 34-year-old woman complaining of a generalized headache 6 days after an unremarkable vaginal delivery that was assisted by an epidural injection. A noncontrast computed tomography scan of the head revealed pneumocephalus secondary to epidural injection. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This?: Pneumocephalus is an uncommon but serious complication of an epidural procedure. Emergency physicians must be aware of this complication entity and maintain this entity in their differential diagnosis given the potential for significant morbidity.
Volume Number
54
Issue Number
3
Pages
e45 - e47
Document Type
Article
Status
Faculty
Facility
School of Medicine
Primary Department
Emergency Medicine
PMID
DOI
10.1016/j.jemermed.2017.12.003