A broken catheter in the epidural space

Neurosciences (Riyadh). 2014 Apr;19(2):138-41.

Abstract

The Arrow FlexTip epidural catheter has reinforced coiled stainless steel wire, which facilitates its insertion and is less likely to puncture the blood vessels. However, as compared with non-reinforced, reinforced epidural catheters are more vulnerable to break. We report a case from Saudi Arabia on a retained fragment of a broken epidural catheter. Measures to prevent this mishap and its management are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Analgesia, Obstetrical / adverse effects
  • Anesthesia, Epidural / adverse effects*
  • Anesthesia, Epidural / instrumentation*
  • Catheterization / adverse effects*
  • Epidural Space / pathology*
  • Equipment Failure*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Tomography Scanners, X-Ray Computed
  • Young Adult