Case report: continuous interscalene block associated with neck hematoma and postoperative sepsis

Continuous peripheral nerve blockade is often used for the management of postoperative pain, even in ambulatory patients. The reported incidence of infectious complications after continuous nerve blockade is low. We report a case of Staphylococcus aureus sepsis after total shoulder arthroplasty in a patient who presented to her surgeon 8 days postoperatively with lethargy and labored breathing. Preoperatively, the patient had received a continuous interscalene block for analgesia that was associated with a neck hematoma. After readmission, exploratory laparotomy, and extensive hospital stay, the patient was discharged to an extended care facility in good condition.