TITLE:
Pneumocephalus Following Combined Spinal-Epidural Anesthesia: A Case Report Analysis
AUTHORS:
Tao Li, Xiaoqin Zeng, Yin Wu
KEYWORDS:
Combined Spinal-Epidural Anesthesia, Pneumocephalus, Intrauterine Space-Occupying Lesion, Anesthesia Complications, Clinical Anesthesia Quality
JOURNAL NAME:
Case Reports in Clinical Medicine,
Vol.13 No.9,
September
27,
2024
ABSTRACT: Background: Combined spinal-epidural anesthesia (CSEA) is widely used in clinical anesthesia due to its rapid onset, reliable anesthetic effect, and strong controllability. Although advancements in technique have reduced the frequency and severity of common complications, reports of rare and serious complications such as pneumocephalus, remain scarce. Case Report: This article presents a case of pneumocephalus following CSEA in a middle-aged female patient undergoing surgery for an intrauterine space-occupying lesion. The patient experienced severe headache postoperatively, and imaging confirmed the presence of intracranial air. After receiving active symptomatic treatment, the patient recovered and was discharged. Conclusion: This case underscores the importance of adhering to standard anesthesia protocols and increasing awareness of rare CSEA complications, particularly the risk of pneumocephalus. Early recognition and timely management are crucial. There is a need to further enhance training and research in anesthetic procedures to improve clinical anesthesia quality and ensure patient safety.