Intrapartum Subarachnoid Migration of Epidural Catheter Inserted for Labour Analgesia: A Case Report

Epidural analgesia is commonly used for pain management during labor. Owing to the blind nature of the insertion of the catheters, they are prone to migration to various spaces intra-spinally, which may result in a multitude of complications. We present a case of a 32-year-old lady who was admitted with labor pain, and an epidural catheter was inserted for labor analgesia. Five hours after insertion, she developed sudden motor and sensory impairment suggestive of subarachnoid migration of the catheter. The diagnosis, management, and risks associated with delay in the identification of this potentially fatal complication are discussed.