This case involves a seventy-one-year-old female patient who underwent an epidural injection in the lumbar spine. Since the injection, the patient has experienced significant pain and weakness and she had great difficulty ambulating. According to the treating radiologist, there was evidence that the needle entered the spinal cord during the injection.
Question(s) For Expert Witness
1. What are risks associated with epidural spinal injections?
Expert Witness Response E-000312
When performed by a skilled, experienced clinician, in an appropriate setting and with carefully selected patients, the chance of significant complication from epidural steroid injections (ESIs) is remote. Nonetheless, similar to regional analgesia procedures, there are risks associated with ESIs. Cervical ESIs carry similar risks, with the apparent caveat that any damage to the spinal cord at the level of the cervical spine will often result in greater impairment than will damage at the lumbar levels. Additionally, it may precipitate respiratory arrest at higher cervical levels. There is the risk of spinal cord trauma if the operator performs direct injection into the spinal cord via an interlaminar approach. This risk is essentially absent at the lower lumbar spine, since the spinal cord terminates at the level of L2.
About the author
Michael Talve, CEO
Michael Talve stands at the forefront of legal innovation as the CEO and Managing Director of Expert Institute. Under his leadership, the Expert Institute has established itself as a vital player in the legal technology arena, revolutionizing how lawyers connect with world-class experts and access advanced legal technology. Michael's role involves not only steering the company's strategic direction but also ensuring the delivery of unparalleled intelligence and cutting-edge solutions to legal professionals. His work at Expert Institute has been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of attorneys in case preparation and execution, making a significant impact on the legal industry's approach to expert consultation and technological integration. Michael's vision and execution have positioned the Expert Institute as a key facilitator in the intersection of law and technology.
