An unusual complication of interscalene brachial plexus catheterization: delayed catheter migration

Br J Anaesth. 2005 Oct;95(4):535-7. doi: 10.1093/bja/aei217. Epub 2005 Jul 28.

Abstract

This case report describes the delayed migration of an interscalene brachial plexus catheter that was inserted for postoperative analgesia and to facilitate physiotherapy after shoulder surgery. Approximately 18 h after surgery the catheter was found to have migrated into the interpleural space, which could have resulted in a serious complication, namely a pneumothorax.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brachial Plexus*
  • Foreign-Body Migration / diagnostic imaging
  • Foreign-Body Migration / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Nerve Block / adverse effects*
  • Pain, Postoperative / therapy
  • Shoulder Joint / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed