Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 3/30/2009

Question
Dr. Levy,

I have a close relative who underwent a planned c-section but experienced a seemingly rare reaction to the anesthesia (we think), which has caused long time (going on 5 months now) paralysis in her lower body. This condition has baffled her doctors and she is now faced with having to learn how to walk again through therapy sessions although she still has limited control of the muscles in her lower body. I recently heard of someone who suffered the same reaction but was able to be treated through kidney dialysis. Have you ever heard of such a condition? If so, does this condition have a specific name? Thank you.

Answer
I have no idea what this is or even if it is related to anesthesia (I doubt it) unless she had a spinal and they injected the medicine directly into the nerve (unlikely because she would have screamed). I assume she has been seen by a neurologist but if not, she should. I don't think this is related to anesthesia.


Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston