Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 11, 2026
A Modified Method for Intrathecal Catheterization in Rats
Published on: February 14, 2025
Intrapleural placement of a thoracic epidural catheter in a patient with spinal stenosis
Kiran Belani1, Mario Montealegre-Gallegos1, Brian Ferla1
1Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
Abstract:
Due to the close proximity of the thoracic epidural space and parietal pleura, pleural puncture with intrapleural catheter placement is a potential complication of thoracic epidural anesthesia. The authors present a case of an obese patient with a history of spinal stenosis that underwent thoracotomy. Repeated failed attempts at epidural anesthesia were complicated by intrapleural placement of the catheter. The patient subsequently developed clinical signs of pneumothorax and required urgent thoracostomy.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Epidural Anesthesia
Since epidural anesthetics can be infused through an epidural catheter, all types of drugs, including short-acting ones, can be administered. Chloroprocaine and lidocaine are examples of short and long-duration anesthetics, respectively. Bupivacaine...
01:26Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...