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Cerebellar Herniation After Cervical Transforaminal Epidural Injection
  1. Robert J. Mendez, D.O.,
  2. Gregory F. Paine, M.D.,
  3. Michael A. Mazzilli, M.D. and
  4. William A. Beckman, M.D.
  1. Naval Medical Center, Portsmouth, VA
  1. Reprint requests: William Beckman, M.D., Naval Medical Center, Portsmouth, VA, 620 John Paul Jones Circle, Portsmouth, VA 23708-2197. E-mail: WABeckman{at}mar.med.navy.mil

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study is to inform readers of potential catastrophic complications associated with performing cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injections.

Case Report: A 31-year-old man presented to the pain clinic with a history of cervical radicular pain and right upper-extremity radicular symptoms. He was referred from the orthopedic spine clinic for evaluation for epidural steroid injection, having failed conservative treatment consisting of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, oral steroids, and physical therapy. After undergoing a transforaminal epidural steroid injection at the right C8 nerve root, he developed a cerebellar infarct and brainstem herniation. He survived but has residual deficits of persistent diplopia on right lateral gaze and difficulties with short-term memory loss and concentration.

Conclusions: Although transforaminal epidural steroid injections are an efficacious treatment for radicular syndromes, there can be catastrophic complications. In light of the growing body of similar case reports, further investigation is warranted to establish a safe protocol for the use of this modality.

  • Cervical
  • Radicular pain
  • Transforaminal injection
  • Steroids

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Footnotes

  • The views expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Navy, Department of Defense, or the United States Government.

    This is a U.S. government work. There are no restrictions on its use.