European journal of medical research
-
Spinal epidural abscess usually arises by hematogenous, lymphatic or venous spread. The frequent use of invasive procedures at the spinal cord such as epidural injections to produce analgesia has led to an increased incidence of iatrogenic abscesses. We describe 8 patients who developed iatrogenic spinal epidural abscesses after paravertebral or intragluteal punctures respectively intravenous catheters to produce analgesia. ⋯ Outcome was excellent with early therapy consisting of laminectomy and/or antibiotic treatment in the six patients treated within two days of appearance of symptoms. Invasive procedures at the spinal cord can lead to iatrogenic spinal epidural abscesses. Physicians dealing with deep punctures and catheter procedures should be aware of early symptoms and signs of an epidural abscess, since early diagnosis and specific therapy are the most important factors for a good outcome.