Lidocaine-induced altered mental status and seizure after hematoma block

J Emerg Med. 2006 Oct;31(3):251-3. doi: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2005.12.021.

Abstract

Hematoma blocks with lidocaine are routinely utilized in the Emergency Department to allow reduction of Colles' fractures. Lidocaine toxicity is a potential complication of this procedure. We present a case report of a patient who developed acute mental status changes and generalized seizure immediately following administration of lidocaine during a hematoma block. The rapid onset of seizure development following injection was most likely due to inadvertent intravascular administration.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anesthetics, Local / administration & dosage
  • Anesthetics, Local / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Fracture Fixation
  • Hematoma
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intravenous
  • Lidocaine / administration & dosage
  • Lidocaine / adverse effects*
  • Medication Errors / adverse effects*
  • Seizures / chemically induced*

Substances

  • Anesthetics, Local
  • Lidocaine