Accidental intrathecal injection of tranexamic acid: a case report

Tranexamic acid is a well-known antifibrinolytic medication frequently prescribed to individuals with bleeding disorders. Following accidental intrathecal injection of tranexamic acid, major morbidities and fatalities have been documented. The aim of this case report is to present a novel method for management of intrathecal injection of tranexamic acid.

In this case report, a 400 mg intrathecal injection of tranexamic acid resulted in significant back and gluteal pain, myoclonus of the lower limbs, agitation, and widespread convulsions in a 31-year-old Egyptian male with history of left arm and right leg fracture. Immediate intravenous sedation with midazolam (5 mg) and fentanyl (50 μg) was delivered with no response in seizure termination. A 1000 mg phenytoin intravenous infusion and subsequently, induction of general anesthesia was performed by thiopental sodium (250 mg) and atracurium (50 mg) infusion, and the trachea of the patient was intubated. Maintenance of anesthesia was achieved by isoflurane 1.2 minimum alveolar concentration and atracurium 10 mg every 20 minutes, and subsequent doses of thiopental sodium (100 mg) to control seizures. The patient developed focal seizures in the hand and leg, so cerebrospinal fluid lavage was done by inserting two spinal 22-gauge Quincke tip needles, one on level L2–L3 (drainage) and the other on L4–L5. Intrathecal normal saline infusion (150 ml) was done over an hour by passive flow. After cerebrospinal fluid lavage and the patient’s stabilization was obtained, he was transferred to the intensive care unit.

Early and continuous intrathecal lavage with normal saline, with the airway, breathing, and circulation protocol is highly recommended to decrease morbidity and mortality. The selection of the inhalational drug as a sedative and for brain protection in the intensive care unit provided possible benefits in management of this event with medication errors.