[A space-occupying hemorrhage following spinal anesthesia in the presence of an undiagnosed small spinal tumor (ependymoma)].

Space-occupying subarachnoid bleeding after atraumatic puncture of the spinal canal for spinal anesthesia in a patient with no coagulation disorders or anticoagulant therapy is described. The hematoma was caused by puncturing a previously undiagnosed small spinal ependymoma. A thorough and specific preoperative evaluation is of importance to minimize the risks associated with spinal anesthesia.