Spinal subdural epiarachnoid hematoma: A complication of a novel epidural blood patch technique

The effectiveness of epidural blood patch (EBP) in the treatment of postlumbar puncture headache has been proven by several well controlled prospective studies. Backache, neck stiffness, and radicular nerve root discomfort have all been reported as complications of EBP. Theoretical but unreported complications include infection, adhesive arachnoiditis, and obliteration of the epidural space. An unusual case in which six lumbar epidural blood patches were performed including three in which dura and arachnoid were accidentally or intentionally punctured is reported. A dangerous complication, spinal subdural epiarachnoid hematoma, occurred; it was apparently related to the dural and arachnoid punctures.