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Anterior spinal cord syndrome from a spinal epidural hematoma following removal of an epidural catheter.

Zechariah C HarrisHenry K SuAmanda S XiAlwin SomasundaramA Sassan Sabouri
Published in: Canadian journal of anaesthesia = Journal canadien d'anesthesie (2024)
Anterior spinal cord syndrome (ASCS) represents an uncommon neurologic manifestation of SEH, which is typically characterized by a triad of back pain and sensory and motor deficits. Although the initial CT scan was necessary to diagnose the postvascular surgery complication, it did not immediately detect the SEH. In cases of ASCS subsequent to thoracic epidural placement and removal, MRI is the preferred imaging modality for precise diagnosis and assessment of the need for surgical intervention. Despite adherence to anticoagulation guidelines, patients undergoing neuraxial anesthesia may face an elevated risk of developing SEH. Health care professionals should remain vigilant in monitoring for neurologic abnormalities following epidural catheter insertion or removal, particularly in the context of vascular surgery.
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