Unintentional epidural administration of thiamylal. Case report.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVES

A 36-year-old woman was scheduled for surgery of bicornuate uterus under epidural anesthesia.

METHODS

As a test dose, 3 mL 2.5% thiamylal was injected unintentionally through the epidural catheter instead of 1.5% lidocaine with 15 micrograms epinephrine.

RESULTS

Immediately the patient complained of burning pain in the low back area. Administrations of 10 mL 2% lidocaine without epinephrine and 10 mL normal saline containing hydrocortisone 100 mg were performed through the epidural catheter.

CONCLUSIONS

The patient recovered without permanent neurologic sequelae.