Posterior thigh abscess as a complication of continuous popliteal nerve catheter
Tucker, C.J.; Kirk, K.L.; Ficke, J.R.
American Journal of Orthopedics 39(3): E25-E27
2010
ISSN/ISBN: 1078-4519 PMID: 20463991 Document Number: 641869
Continuous peripheral nerve catheters (CPNCs) have become increasingly popular for postoperative analgesia in orthopedic surgery involving the lower limbs. The CPNC technique has been found to reduce postoperative pain and facilitate earlier discharge and recovery. Until recently, potential infectious complications associated with CPNCs have remained largely unreported. In this report, we present the case of a posterior thigh abscess that developed after placement of a continuous popliteal nerve catheter and required surgical débridement.