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Side Effects of a Thoracic Epidural

A thoracic epidural is an epidural anesthesia that is injected into the thoracic area of the back or the mid-back. This type of pain relief is commonly used for surgeries performed in the chest area. It provides local pain relief without rendering the patient unconscious. An epidural anesthesia may be given to the patient in combination with other drugs, such as narcotics, which carry risks of additional side effects.

  1. Side Effects

    • A thoracic epidural may result in nausea and vomiting following the surgery. If you have severe nausea and vomiting, your surgeon may prescribe an anti-nausea medication to help control it. Patients may also experience headache, backache or infection. According to the American Pregnancy Association, you may also experience a severe drop in blood pressure. While you are on the anesthesia, your surgeon will monitor your blood pressure and keep you hydrated to help prevent an abrupt drop in blood pressure. If you do experience this condition, your surgeon may also administer oxygen and other medications.

    Blood Clots

    • Blood clots are also a possibility with a thoracic epidural. These can be potentially dangerous. According to the National Institutes of Health, if you notice swelling and pain in your legs, typically occurring a few days after surgery, you may have a blood clot. Blood clots can travel from the legs to the lungs. If this happens, you may also experience shortness of breath and chest pain. Blood clots in the lungs are life-threatening. Get medical help quickly if you experience symptoms of a blood clot. To help prevent this possible side effect, try to get out of bed soon after surgery and ambulate to increase circulation.

    Complications

    • A thoracic epidural may also result in other rare complications. According to Redding Anesthesia Associates Medical Group, these may include nerve damage, paralysis, the loss of bowel, bladder and sexual function, as well as seizures, allergic reactions, cardiac arrest, leakage of spinal fluid and death. These complications are not common. To help avert possible complications, inform your surgeon of all of your medical conditions, allergies and any medications (prescription or otherwise) that you are taking.

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