J Korean Orthop Assoc.  1998 Aug;33(4):1120-1125.

Thoracolumbar Epidural Hematoma Complicated by Cauda Equina Syndrome : Complication of Systemic Heparinization Following Epidural Anesthesia: A case report

• Yoon HK
• Jeon HS
• Cho KN
• Choi JH

Abstract

Spinal epidural hematoma is a rare complication of epidural anesthesia and most commonly associated with intraoperative or postoperative anticoagulant administration. We describe the case of an acute thoracolumbar epidural hematoma at the T12-L4 level complicated by cauda equina syndrome, which occurred after placement of spinal epidural catheter for anesthesia and anticoagulant therapy for acute myocardial infarction developed postoperatively. In our experience, the spinal epidural catheterization and anticoagulant therapy may potentially increase the risk of epidural hematoma formation.

Keyword

Spinal epidural hematoma; Epidural anesthesia; Anticoagulant therapy

MeSH Terms

Anesthesia
Anesthesia, Epidural*
Catheterization
Catheters
Cauda Equina*
Hematoma*
Hematoma, Epidural, Spinal
Heparin*
Myocardial Infarction
Polyradiculopathy*
Heparin