A Case of Epidural Management in a Pregnant Patient with Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis

Abstract

Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is a rare condition in which fat accumulates in the epidural space. Patients may be asymptomatic or present with neurologic symptoms if the spinal cord is compressed. Based on the pathophysiology of this condition, there are theorized effects that suggest a contraindication to epidural anesthesia. Due to the rarity of the condition, there is a lack of significant evidence in the literature regarding the efficacy of epidural analgesia or related complications in these patients. Herein, we have presented a patient with a prior diagnosis of spinal epidural lipomatosis and her course of anesthetic management during labor.