[Transient neurological symptoms after spinal anesthesia].

OBJECTIVES: Transient neurological symptoms (TNS) after spinal anesthesia vary from dysesthesia that is hardly noticed to severe pain. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of TNS and provocative risk factors in 591 patients who underwent central block.

METHODS: Before the operation, demographic data and features of the operation and the block were recorded. The patients were evaluated at postoperative 24 and 48 hours and day 7 with regard to TNS in the form of pain (headache, lower back and/or limb pain, backache, pain in the puncture region) and sensation disorders (paresthesia, hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, anesthesia, dysesthesia).

RESULTS: The incidence of TNS among the study patients was 35.7%. It was significantly higher in gynecology and urology patients and was higher in female patients in comparison with male patients. The incidence of TNS was greater when blood in the needle/catheter, pain, or paresthesia was seen, but was not associated with LA agents used in the study.

CONCLUSION: A similar TNS incidence was seen in the results of this study as has been reported in the literature. A greater number of attempts, the lithotomy position, and co-morbidities such as ASHD and DM increase the incidence of TNS.