Post-thoracotomy Horner syndrome associated with extrapleural infusion of local anesthetic

Abstract

Continuous incisional infusion of local anesthetic through an extrapleural catheter to achieve an intercostal nerve block is a safe and effective adjunct to control postoperative pain after thoracotomy. Local and systemic complications are rare. Here we present a case of an acute, reversible, post-thoracotomy Horner syndrome associated with the use of local anesthetic infusion via an intraoperatively placed extrapleural catheter.