Korean J Pain.  2018 Apr;31(2):80-86. 10.3344/kjp.2018.31.2.80.

Efficacy of bilateral greater occipital nerve block in postdural puncture headache: a narrative review

• Nair AS
• Kodisharapu PK
• Anne P
• Saifuddin
• Asiel C
• Rayani BK

• KMID: 2410829
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3344/kjp.2018.31.2.80

Abstract

The Epidural blood patch is considered the gold standard for managing postdural puncture headache when supportive measures fail. However, it is a procedure which can lead to another inadvertent dural puncture. Other potential adverse events that could occur during a blood patch are meningitis, neurological deficits, and unconsciousness. The bilateral greater occipital nerve block has been used for treating chronic headaches in patients with PDPH with a single injection. This minimally invasive, simple procedure can be considered for patients early, along with other supportive treatment, and an epidural blood patch can be avoided.

Keyword

Epidural blood patch; Greater occipital nerve; Nerve block; Pain management; Postdural puncture headache; Ultrasound

MeSH Terms

Blood Patch, Epidural
Headache Disorders
Humans
Meningitis
Nerve Block*
Pain Management
Post-Dural Puncture Headache*
Punctures
Ultrasonography
Unconsciousness

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