Subdural haematoma following infant spinal anaesthesia

Abstract

Introduction: Subdural haematoma (SDH) is rare following spinal anaesthesia and has not been reported previously in an infant. Non-accidental injury is the commonest cause of subdural haematoma in infants. Methods: We describe two cases of SDH following spinal anaesthesia in infants. Results: In both cases, forensic investigation was commenced and no evidence of child abuse was found. Both children are well 2 years after diagnosis. Conclusion: Paediatric health workers should be aware of the possibility of SDH after spinal anaesthesia and consider this as a differential diagnosis when investigating possible non-accidental injury in an infant.