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Updated: Jun 11, 2026

Spinal Sonography for Ultrasound-Guided Lumbar Neuraxial Anesthesia
Published on: January 31, 2025
Unrecognized dural puncture during epidural analgesia in obstetrics later confirmed by brain imaging
G Corbonnois1, T O'Neill, A Brabis-Henner
1Service d'anesthésie-réanimation chirurgicale, hôpital Central, CHU de Nancy, 29, avenue du Maréchal-de-Lattre-de-Tassigny, 54035 Nancy cedex, France.
Abstract:
Accidental dural puncture is a well-recognized complication of obstetric epidurals that can potentially incapacitate the patient. Unrecognized dural puncture during epidural administration can lead to a delay in therapeutic intervention resulting in potentially serious complications. We report a case of a parturient who developed disabling intracranial hypotension and diplopia following accidental dural puncture during apparently uneventful epidural catheter insertion. Magnetic resonance neuroimaging was performed to confirm the diagnosis, and direct clinical management. We also discuss the role of neuroimaging in the investigation of postpartum headache.
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