Breakage of an Epidural Catheter Inserted for Labor Analgesia.

The breakage of an epidural catheter, which is usually not noticed, is a rare but important complication encountered while inserting or removing the catheter during epidural blockade. While the epidural catheter was being inserted for labor analgesia, despite no problem being encountered in advancing the catheter, it was drawn back to verify the location; it was observed that 2 cm of the distal end of the catheter was missing. A neurosurgical consultation was requested; it was reported that the broken piece would not create any problems and reintervention could be performed for labor analgesia.