Successful epidural anesthesia in a patient with an arachnoid cyst, preeclampsia, and triplets

Background and Objectives. Arachnoid cysts are a frequent finding on magnetic resonance imaging; however, the use of major conduction anesthesia in patients with these cysts has not been reported. Methods. Epidural anesthesia was used in a parturient with a triplet pregnancy preeclampsia, and a documented arachnoid cyst extending from T11 to L1. Results. Epidural anesthesia was successfully used in this high-risk patient, and airway manipulation, which would have been difficult in this patient, was thereby avoided. Conclusions. Arachnoid cysts are not a contraindication to major conduction anesthesia, as is confirmed by a review of arachnoid cysts and anesthetic considerations.