Spinal Cord Injury and Complications Related to Neuraxial Anaesthesia Procedures: A Systematic Review

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2023

Authors

Daniel Pozza (Author) FMUP; Isaura Tavares (Author) FMUP; Cruz C.D. (Author) FMUP; Fonseca, S (Author) Other

Journal

Title: International Journal Of Molecular Sciences

Vol. 24 No. 2335

Final page: 4665

ISSN: 1661-6596

Publisher: MDPI

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 1 Citation

Scopus - 3 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00X-ZBV

DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054665

Abstract (EN): The use of neuraxial procedures, such as spinal and epidural anaesthesia, has been linked to some possible complications. In addition, spinal cord injuries due to anaesthetic practice (Anaes-SCI) are rare events but remain a significant concern for many patients undergoing surgery. This systematic review aimed to identify high-risk patients summarise the causes, consequences, and management/recommendations of SCI due to neuraxial techniques in anaesthesia. A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted in accordance with Cochrane recommendations, and inclusion criteria were applied to identify relevant studies. From the 384 studies initially screened, 31 were critically appraised, and the data were extracted and analysed. The results of this review suggest that the main risk factors reported were extremes of age, obesity, and diabetes. Anaes-SCI was reported as a consequence of hematoma, trauma, abscess, ischemia, and infarction, among others. As a result, mainly motor deficits, sensory loss, and pain were reported. Many authors reported delayed treatments to resolve Anaes-SCI. Despite the potential complications, neuraxial techniques are still one of the best options for opioid-sparing pain prevention and management, reducing patients' morbidity, improving outcomes, reducing the length of hospital stay, and pain chronification, with a consequent economic benefit. The main findings of this review highlight the importance of careful patient management and close monitoring during neuraxial anaesthesia procedures to minimise the risk of spinal cord injury and complications.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 13