Acute alcohol intoxication: uncommon complication associated to celiac plexus neurolysis during open surgical procedure in patient with refractory cancer pain. Case report

摘要

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Celiac plexus neurolysis is a pain management option for patients with abdominal cancer refractory to other approaches. It is followed by adverse reactions which may be diagnosed and treated, provided patients are monitored and followed up immediately after the procedure. This study aimed at reporting the case of a patient submitted to celiac plexus neurolysis who evolved with acute alcohol intoxication diagnosed in the post-anesthetic care unit. CASE REPORT: Female patient, 43 years old, with pancreatic head cancer, submitted to intraoperative celiac plexus neurolysis with 40 mL of 98% alcohol. Patient evolved in the post-anesthetic care unit with hypotension, hypoxemia and mental confusion, which were reverted with intravenous hydration and elevation of lower limbs. CONCLUSION: Celiac plexus alcoholization permanently blocks visceral pain of pancreatic cancer patients, however it is not free of adverse reactions, which may evolve to severe complications if not promptly diagnosed, making mandatory the follow up of patients in the post-anesthetic care unit.