Repeat epidural blood patch at the level of unintentional dural puncture and its neurologic complications: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background Autologous epidural blood patch (AEBP) is effective for post-dural-puncture headache (PDPH). In some cases, repeat procedures are required for complete cure. In rare instances, severe adverse effects can occur. We present a case of neurologically complicated AEBPs, one of which was performed at the interspace of unintentional dural puncture (UDP). Case presentation A 40-year-old primigravida sustained UDP at the L2–3 interspace during combined spinal-epidural anesthesia for a scheduled cesarean section. She developed PDPH and underwent a single AEBP at L3–4. The PDPH recurred and she required another AEBP at L2–3, after which she reported radicular pains. A diagnosis of subdural hematoma and adhesive arachnoiditis was made. Her symptoms partially resolved in the following months. Conclusion It may be prudent to reconsider the use of repeated AEBP and to avoid the interspace of UDP. A thorough evaluation is warranted to exclude treatable lesions when adverse effects occur.

Keywords

• Arachnoiditis
• Epidural blood patch
• Post-dural-puncture headache
• Subdural hematoma