Article

Headache After Lumbar Puncture Review of the Epidural Blood Patch

Authors: JON M. McGRUDER MD, JAMES E. COOKE MD, JOANNE M. CONROY MD, J. DAVID BAKER III MD

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe incidence of accidental dural puncture during epidural block is 2.9%; headache follows in as many as 76.5% of these patients. Treatment by injection of autologous blood into the epidural space has gained wide acceptance since its introduction in 1960, though it is contraindicated by blood dyscrasias, anticoagulant therapy, bleeding, and localized infection. The procedure is done by slowly injecting 15 to 20 ml of blood into the same interspace, no sooner than 24 hours after the original puncture. Serious complications are rare.

This content is limited to qualifying members.

Existing members, please login first

If you have an existing account please login now to access this article or view purchase options.

Purchase only this article ($25)

Create a free account, then purchase this article to download or access it online for 24 hours.

Purchase an SMJ online subscription ($75)

Create a free account, then purchase a subscription to get complete access to all articles for a full year.

Purchase a membership plan (fees vary)

Premium members can access all articles plus recieve many more benefits. View all membership plans and benefit packages.

References