Stroke following epidural injections--case report and review of literature

J Neuroimaging. 2013 Jan;23(1):118-21. doi: 10.1111/j.1552-6569.2011.00615.x. Epub 2011 Jun 23.

Abstract

Background and purpose: To describe a growing number of cases associated with spinal cord and posterior circulation ischemia as a complication of cervical epidural steroid injection (CESI).

Methods: Case report and review of literature.

Results: Sixteen cases of spinal cord and posterior circulation ischemia were analyzed. Two cases had transient symptoms and 10 had long-term sequelae. Four resulted in death.

Conclusion: Infarction is a rare but potentially devastating complication of CESI. It may occur despite the use of fluoroscopic guidance.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections, Epidural / adverse effects*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Punctures / adverse effects*
  • Steroids / administration & dosage*
  • Steroids / adverse effects*
  • Stroke / diagnosis*
  • Stroke / etiology*
  • Stroke / pathology

Substances

  • Steroids