LESI LESI Complications and Risks 2

Question 1

An epidural hematoma after LESI is most likely to occur in patients who:

Accepted Answer

Are taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications

Answer

Patients on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy have impaired hemostasis and are at significantly increased risk of epidural hematoma formation following ESI.

Question 2

Steroid flare after ESI is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Temporary increase in pain 24-48 hours after injection

Answer

Steroid flare is a transient worsening of pain occurring 24-48 hours post-injection, likely due to a local inflammatory reaction to the crystalline steroid particles, and resolves spontaneously.

Question 3

Which symptom after LESI should prompt immediate emergency evaluation for cauda equina syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Bilateral leg weakness, saddle anesthesia, and bowel/bladder dysfunction

Answer

Bilateral leg weakness, saddle anesthesia, and bowel or bladder dysfunction suggest cauda equina syndrome, a neurological emergency requiring urgent imaging and possible surgical decompression.

Question 4

Facial flushing and increased energy occurring 1-2 days after an ESI are most likely caused by:

Accepted Answer

Systemic corticosteroid effects (steroid flush)

Answer

Facial flushing, increased energy, insomnia, and mood changes in the 1-2 days following ESI are common systemic effects of absorbed corticosteroid and are generally benign.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the risk of infection (epidural abscess) following a single ESI?

Accepted Answer

Rare, estimated at approximately 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 100,000

Answer

Epidural abscess after ESI is rare, with estimates ranging from approximately 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 100,000 injections, but can be devastating if not recognized early.

LESI - Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection Practice Test

LESI - Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection Practice Test

LESI LESI Complications and Risks 2