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Pneumoretroperitoneum after Attempted Epidural Anesthesia
Arkadi Isakov1, Arnold Shtein2, Sholmo Kyzer1
1Department of Surgery "B," Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
Summary
Pneumoretroperitoneum, or air in the retroperitoneal space, can arise from various causes. This case highlights a rare instance linked to epidural anesthesia insufflation.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging and Diagnostics
- Surgical Complications
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Pneumoretroperitoneum is the presence of air in the retroperitoneal space.
- Common causes include hollow viscus perforation, infections with gas-forming organisms, and thoracic air leaks.
- Rare etiologies involve orthopedic procedures and hip joint abscesses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of pneumoretroperitoneum.
- To identify an unusual cause of retroperitoneal air accumulation.
Main Methods:
- Case report presentation.
- Review of relevant medical literature.
Main Results:
- A case of pneumoretroperitoneum was identified.
- The cause was attributed to air insufflation during an attempted epidural anesthesia procedure.
Conclusions:
- Epidural anesthesia can be a rare cause of pneumoretroperitoneum.
- Clinicians should consider this etiology in relevant clinical scenarios.
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