Epidural catheter infections

Epidural analgesia is used as a method of pain relief throughout the UK. It is used short-term in obstetric practice, following surgery and after trauma, and also longer-term for malignancy and chronic pain. Infection may occur as a complication of the technique. Both deep infection, e.g., meningitis, paraspinal and epidural abscesses, and superficial skin infections can occur. To minimize infection risk, epidural catheters should be inserted using an aseptic technique and subsequently checked at least daily, looking for evidence of superficial and deep infection. There should be a dedicated pain team to ensure that education of staff occurs and to carry out regular audits of the service. (C) 2001 The Hospital Infection Society.