Transient brachial plexus palsy: an unusual complication of paravertebral infusion of local anesthetic.

A continuous infusion of 0.25% bupivaciane into the parevertebral space was used for postoperative pain relief after a lung resection. On postoperative day 1, a brachial plexus palsy developed, which resolved on discontinuation of the infusion. We believe this rare complication has not been reported previously. Awareness of this possibility may avoid unnecessary investigations.