J Korean Pain Soc.  1997 May;10(1):131-133.

Stroke after the Procedure of Lumbar Facet Joint Block and Lumbar Epidural Block

• Lee HK
• Kim SM
• Han KR
• Lee JM
• Ko SS
• Kim C

Abstract

Number of elderly patients requiring nerve blocks have been increasing in recent years. We had two elderly patients who suffered stroke one day and three days after lumbar facet joint block and lumbar single epidural block, respectively. Both patients due to their advanced age had potential risk factor to suffer one or more of the following; stroke, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. Due to our experience with these patients, we suggested the following: (1) Nerve blocks should be reconsidered for elderly patient who posesses a potential risk factor to suffer a stroke. (2) Prior to invasive block, administration of mild sedatives or analgesics may provide beneficial effects for patients with hypertension. (3) Adequately informed consent must be fully discussed time of consultation with patient scheduled for nerve block, especially for elderly and risky patient.

Keyword

Analgesia, lumbar epidural block, lumbar facet joint block; Complication, stroke

MeSH Terms

Aged
Analgesics
Diabetes Mellitus
Humans
Hypertension
Hypnotics and Sedatives
Informed Consent
Nerve Block
Risk Factors
Stroke*
Zygapophyseal Joint*
Analgesics
Hypnotics and Sedatives