[Spinal anesthesia-induced neurological complications.].

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVES

Although rare, spinal anesthesia-induced neurological complications may determine serious sequelae. This study aimed at presenting these complications in order to elucidate triggering factors and help in the diagnosis of such injuries.

CONTENTS: The following complications are presented: needle and catheter-induced nerve injury, post dural puncture headache, anterior spinal artery syndrome, spinal hematoma, septic meningitis, aseptic meningitis, adhesive arachnoiditis, cauda equina syndrome, and transient neurological symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

The understanding of triggering factors of spinal anesthesia-induced neurological complications may prevent injuries and help early diagnosis and treatment, therefore changing patients prognosis.