[Impossible withdrawal of an epidural catheter]

Abstract

The knotting of an epidural catheter is a rare complication preventing catheter withdrawal. We report two cases of catheter knotting and subsequent impossible withdrawal with moderate repeated traction. Imaging by CT scan allowed visualisation in the epidural space of a loop and a real knot for the first and the second patient respectively. The common risk factor found was an excess in catheter length inserted. A surgical procedure was necessary for both patients.