Paresthesiae during radiofrequency neurolysis of lumbar sympathetic trunk in CRPS: human evidence of a sympatho-sensory connection?

Radiofrequency heat lesioning has been advocated to prolong the duration of therapeutic effect of lumbar sympathetic block in Complex Region Pain Syndrome (CRPS) of the lower extremity. Prior to radiofrequency lesioning of the lumbar sympathetic trunk, sensory and motor stimulation may be used to verify that the active needle tip is not adjacent to a spinal nerve to avoid unwanted neural injury. However, the value of sensory stimulation to aid in precise needle positioning at the desired target remains controversial.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus epidural abscess after transforaminal epidural steroid injection.

Transforaminal epidural steroid injections are provided frequently for patients with lumbar radiculopathy, having demonstrated efficacy and safety. We present a patient who developed methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus epidural abscess 11 days after a transforaminal epidural steroid injection. The abscess required surgical intervention and intravenous vancomycin.

Randomized prospective comparison of forced air warming using hospital blankets versus commercial blankets in surgical patients.

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an experimental approach to forced air warming using hospital blankets or a Bair Hugger warming unit (Augustine Medical Inc., Eden Prairie, MN) to create a tent of warm air.

Methods: Adult patients undergoing major surgery were studied.