Long-term Effects of Accidental Dural Puncture in Patients Having Had an Epidural Blood Patch (LEAP)

Accidental dural puncture (ADP) during placement of an epidural catheter for anesthesia and analgesia is a well known complication. Previous studies have found audiometric deterioration following ADP. Epidural blood patch (EBP) is a common method for treating postural headache in patients with accidental dural puncture. In most cases, one-two patches are needed for successful management. Long-term effects of EBP on the incidence of backache, headache and early audiometric deterioration are few or non-existant. The present study aims to determine the long-term sequelae of EDP in parturients who had ADP and were treated with an EBP during the years 2005 - 2011.