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Abstract
Lumbar epidural block using a “loss of resistance” technique (LORT) with air can potentially cause pneumocephalus. Herein, we present a pneumocephalus that occurred after an epidural block. A 58-year-old male patient underwent an interlaminar lumbar epidural block using a LORT with air for L4–5 disc herniation. After the block, the patient complained of headache, vomiting, and truncal myoclonus. For further evaluation, a brain computed tomography was performed, and pneumocephalus was finally diagnosed. The patient underwent conservative treatment and recovered without any complications. He was discharged on the 11th day after the block.
Figures and Tables
Figure 1
(A) The lateral plain radiograph shows a degenerative change on the lumbar spine. (B) T2-weighted sagittal magnetic resonance imaging shows a disc herniation at the L4–5 level.
Figure 2
(A) Computed tomography scan of the brain shows a large amount of intracranial air formation (approximated 5 ml) in the frontal convex area and anterior horns of bilateral lateral ventricle. (B) Computed tomography scan of the brain shows a small amount of air formation (approximated 2 ml) in the multifocal subarachnoid space.
References
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