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Priapism following a lumbar sympathetic nerve block
Michael Sniderman1, Meda Raghavendra, Joseph R Holtman
1Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Pain Management, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL 60153, USA. michaelsniderman@hotmail.com
Pain Medicine (Malden, Mass.)
|June 15, 2011
Summary
A lumbar sympathetic nerve block (LSNB) can cause priapism, a prolonged erection, due to unopposed parasympathetic stimulation. This rare complication highlights a potential side effect of the common pain management procedure.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Urology
- Neurology
Background:
- Lumbar sympathetic nerve blocks (LSNB) are frequently used for chronic pain management.
- Understanding potential complications is crucial for patient safety.
Observation:
- A case report details an unusual complication following a LSNB procedure.
- The patient experienced several hours of priapism post-LSNB.
Findings:
- Bilateral LSNB can result in priapism.
- This occurs due to unopposed parasympathetic penile stimulation.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of this rare but significant side effect.
- Further investigation into the mechanism and incidence of LSNB-induced priapism is warranted.
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