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PubMed Central
Article . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: PubMed Central
Cureus
Article . 2025 . Peer-reviewed
Data sources: Crossref
Cureus
Article . 2025
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Complication of Trigger Point Injections: Retained Injection Needle Causing Pneumothorax

Authors: Reindorf, Rachel; Saju, Jonathan; Lee, Seung J; Gattu, Kanchana; Stansbury, Lynn G; Wright, Thelma;

Complication of Trigger Point Injections: Retained Injection Needle Causing Pneumothorax

Abstract

Trigger point injections (TPIs) are widely used for myofascial pain syndrome and are generally safe, though rare complications, such as pneumothorax, have been reported. We present a rare case of a retained injection needle causing pneumothorax following TPI. A 38-year-old male with chronic back pain, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and prior spinal surgery developed right-sided pleuritic pain and dyspnea several hours after TPI. Imaging revealed a right apical pneumothorax and a retained metallic needle within the thoracic cavity. The needle was successfully removed via video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), and the patient was discharged the same day without complications. This case highlights the importance of procedural vigilance during TPIs, including careful documentation, appropriate needle selection based on anatomy, and post-procedure inspection of instruments. The use of ultrasound guidance may further reduce risks such as pleural puncture and needle retention. Standardized safety measures are essential to prevent such serious, avoidable complications in routine pain management practice.

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Keywords

Pain Management

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
Green