Accidental Breakage of Lumbar Epidural Catheter - Case report

Abstract

Breakage of epidural catheter is a rare occurrence with only isolated reports. Though insertion of epidural catheter is generally considered a safe procedure, breakage during removal leaving a segment in the patient’s back can occur. There are many factors associated with breakage of an epidural catheter, such as the characteristics of the catheter itself, patient’s factors (anatomy, position during insertion and removal of the catheter), and the difficulty of the procedure. Catheter damage is also related to excessive insertion into the epidural space. The current recommendation is to let the catheter fragment remain in the epidural space. Surgical removal is considered if there is a possibility that the retained catheter might cause neurological problems later or could be a source of infection as well as in children. This case report describes the breakage of an epidural catheter detailing recommended techniques for removal and the subsequent removal by a surgical approach.

Key words: Epidural, catheter breakage