Serious neurologic complications of neuraxial anesthesia for obstetrics

Serious neurologic complications of neuraxial anesthesia in obstetric patients are rare. The true incidence of most such complications is unknown, but it appears that they occur less often in obstetric patients than in general surgical patients. Outcomes range from transient, mild neurologic symptoms to severe life-threatening injury. A neurology consultant should be involved in the evaluation of all postpartum neurologic complaints. For further information, including incidence, risk factors, and prevention, refer to UpToDate content on serious neurologic complications of neuraxial anesthesia procedures in obstetric patients.