Neural injury after interventions for chronic pain

Abstract

Interventions for chronic pain are important in the diagnosis and treatment of many disorders causing chronic pain and suffering. Injury to the peripheral or central nervous system is a rare but important cause of morbidity and mortality following chronic pain interventions. Mechanisms of neural injury include neural ischemia, compression from hematoma, abscess, granuloma, and neurotoxicity. This review will highlight the pathophysiology of neural injuries, review the literature regarding specific injuries and mechanisms, and suggest practical guidelines for injury prevention.