Unintended subdural anesthesia and subdural air bubbles after attempted epidural anesthesia in a patient undergoing cesarean section.

Background: Unintended subdural anesthesia accompanied by air bubbles compressing the cauda after attempting epidural anesthesia is rare.

Cases: A 41-year-old pregnant woman was scheduled to undergo epidural anesthesia for cesarean section. After attempting epidural anesthesia, she experienced prolonged hypotension and recovery time, especially in the right extremity. Through magnetic resonance imaging we found subdural air bubbles compressing the right side of the cauda equina in the L3 region. Thus, we considered unintended subdural anesthesia and performed conservative management with close observation. Her symptoms completely resolved within 24 h.

Conclusions: Here, we report a case with various features of subdural anesthesia and subdural air bubbles compressing the cauda.