Accidental Thermal Burn During Recovery from Spinal Anesthesia: A Case Report

Abstract Introduction Thermal burns occurring during recovery from spinal anaesthesia are rare but preventable complications. Patients recovering from regional anaesthesia may be unable to perceive excessive heat, making them vulnerable to inadvertent injury from external warming devices. Case Description We report a case of a 20-year-old male who developed a thermal burn over the dorsal aspect of the left foot and ankle after undergoing right percutaneous nephrolithotomy under spinal anaesthesia. The procedure was uneventful, and he was shifted to the ward in stable condition. Due to cold weather, a room warmer was placed near his feet while residual sensory blockade persisted. As the spinal block regressed, he complained of a burning sensation and pain over his foot, examination revealed multiple tense blisters consistent with superficial partial-thickness thermal burn on left foot and ankle. The blisters ruptured spontaneously following which daily wound care resulted in progressive healing without the need for skin grafting. Discussion This case highlights that patients with residual sensory blockade remain vulnerable to preventable thermal injury beyond the operating theatre, emphasising the importance of monitoring sensory recovery, protecting insensate limbs, and controlling exposure to external heat sources during postoperative care.