Unintended Epidural Spread Following Unilateral Erector Spinae Plane (ESP) Block: A Case Report

TL;DR

A case report shows that an erector spinae plane block can lead to unintended epidural spread, highlighting the need for awareness of its potential side effects.

Contribution

This report adds to the understanding of ESPB complications through a real-world clinical case.

Findings

An ESPB performed for breast surgery resulted in unintended epidural spread.

The case highlights the unpredictable side effects of ESPB despite its effectiveness.

The report emphasizes the importance of monitoring and awareness during ESPB procedures.

Abstract

The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is a fascial block that consists of the injection of local anesthetic into the space between the erector spinae muscle and the transverse process of the vertebrae. The clinical case presented concerns the execution of an ESPB to control perioperative pain in a patient undergoing breast surgery and the side effects we encountered. Although the block is very effective and easy to perform, it has unpredictable side effects, which are still the subject of numerous clinical studies. ESPB is used all over the world; it is important to know more about the complications that can occur with this block. This case report aims to improve knowledge in this regard.

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