Management of Iatrogenic Emergencies in Interventional Pain Management

Complications associated chronic pain procedures are rare, but have the potential to cause significant morbidity and mortality. Physicians must be able to quickly identify and manage these emergencies. Complications involving the cardiovascular system (including anaphylaxis, vasovagal syncope, and pneumothorax) require quick action to restore normal cardiopulmonary function and prevent progression of symptoms. Complications affecting the neurologic system (including LAST, high spinal, epidural hematomas) can be life-threatening or result in lasting disability. This chapter will provide an overview of the pathophysiology, rapid diagnosis, acute in office management, and advanced treatment of iatrogenic complications resulting from interventional pain management procedures.