Unforeseen Complications: A Case of Subdural Anesthesia Post-epidural Insertion

Cureus. 2023 Sep 15;15(9):e45312. doi: 10.7759/cureus.45312. eCollection 2023 Sep.

Abstract

Subdural anesthesia, although rare, is a significant complication of epidural anesthesia. This case report presents a 28-year-old female patient who developed sudden unconsciousness following epidural anesthesia administration for labor pain. Despite no evident contraindications to epidural anesthesia, she lost consciousness shortly after the initial test dose, leading to an emergency cesarean section under general anesthesia. The neonate showed signs of fetal bradycardia post-epidural and required intensive care. The patient made a complete recovery with no postpartum complications. This report underlines the need for vigilant monitoring and the importance of swift interventions in case of complications arising from epidural anesthesia.

Keywords: arachnoid mater; cerebrospinal fluid; dura mater; epidural anesthesia; meninges; neuraxial anesthesia; neuroepithelium; subarachnoid space; subdural anesthesia; subdural compartment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports