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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
14:56
An Experimental Paradigm for the Prediction of Post-Operative Pain (PPOP)
Published on: January 27, 2010
Neuropathic pain after epidural needle trauma
Gilson Cassem Ramos1, Eduardo Custódio de O Gomes
1Serviço de Anestesia do Hospital Samaritano de Goiânia, GO. gilson.ramos@terra.com.br
Revista Brasileira De Anestesiologia
|April 22, 2009
Summary
Neurologic complications from epidural blocks are rare. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of acute traumatic neuropathic pain, like that experienced by a patient after an epidural, can lead to full recovery.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Neurology
- Pain Medicine
Background:
- Epidural blocks are common anesthetic procedures.
- Neurologic complications, though rare, can occur.
- Direct nerve root trauma can lead to neuropathic pain.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing laparoscopic surgery experienced severe limb pain during epidural anesthesia placement.
- The needle was repositioned, and the procedure continued.
- Postoperatively, the patient developed symptoms of allodynia and hyperesthesia.
Findings:
- Neuropathic pain was diagnosed in the patient.
- Treatment involved a multimodal approach including antidepressants, anticonvulsants, corticosteroids, tramadol, and vitamin B complex.
- The patient recovered fully within 28 days, remaining asymptomatic.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing acute traumatic neuropathic pain.
- Effective treatment can prevent chronic pain development and associated consequences.
- This case highlights the importance of vigilance for neurologic complications after epidural procedures.
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