Residual neurological deficit after central neuraxial blocks

Central Neuraxial blocks (CNB) are useful tools in any anaesthetist's armamentarium. Unlike peripheral nerve injuries, CNB related injury may be severe and permanent. Though they are rare, it may be difficult to determine the true incidence of major complications after CNB. There are several factors, which are thought to cause complications following CNB. High index of suspicion and identifying any concomitant risk factors is of paramount importance in the early detection and management. Anaesthetists should both explain and quantify the risk with the available evidence and from their own experience. The aim of this review is to discuss the most common causes of neurological complications after CNBs, how to predict and reduce them.