Spinal and Epidural Anaesthesia

Master spinal and epidural anaesthesia techniques, procedures, and tips for clinical excellence and anesthesia exam success.

Spinal and Epidural Anaesthesia Techniques

Spinal and Epidural Anaesthesia Techniques serve as essential regional anesthesia methods commonly used in surgeries involving the lower abdomen, pelvis, and lower limbs. In spinal anaesthesia, clinicians perform a single injection into the subarachnoid space, providing rapid onset and dense sensory and motor block—ideal for shorter procedures. Conversely, epidural anaesthesia uses a catheter inserted into the epidural space, allowing continuous or intermittent dosing suitable for prolonged surgeries and labor analgesia.

To ensure optimal results, clinicians must understand spinal anatomy, proper patient positioning, aseptic technique, and correct drug selection. With thorough training, they can reduce the risk of complications such as hypotension, nerve injury, or post-dural puncture headache. Not only do these techniques offer effective intraoperative anesthesia, but they also enhance postoperative pain control.

Ultimately, mastering spinal and epidural anaesthesia builds a core clinical skill set and supports high performance in both exams and practice.

Anatomy Relevant to Spinal and Epidural Blocks

Step-by-Step Spinal Injection

Follow these steps to perform a spinal injection effectively. First, position the patient correctly and identify anatomical landmarks. Next, clean the area thoroughly to maintain aseptic conditions. Insert the spinal needle carefully into the subarachnoid space. Confirm proper placement by observing cerebrospinal fluid return. Finally, administer the local anesthetic and monitor the patient throughout the procedure. By practicing consistently, clinicians gain confidence and ensure safer outcomes during spinal anesthesia.

Welcome to your Spinal And Epidural Anaesthesia Quizz

1. 
What is the primary site of action of local anesthetics in spinal anesthesia?

2. 
Which factor most significantly influences the spread of spinal anesthesia?

3. 
What is the most common side effect of spinal anesthesia?

4. 
What is the primary advantage of epidural anesthesia over spinal anesthesia?

5. 
Which of the following is NOT a contraindication for spinal or epidural anesthesia?

6. 
Which epidural needle is most commonly used to minimize tissue trauma?

7. 
What is the recommended insertion site for a spinal anesthetic in an adult?

8. 
Which of the following is true about combined spinal-epidural (CSE) anesthesia?

9. 
What is the most common cause of a “high spinal” block?

10. 
Which of the following reduces the risk of post-dural puncture headache (PDPH)?

11. 
Which dermatome level is required to achieve adequate anesthesia for a cesarean section?

12. 
What is the primary reason for a failed epidural block?

13. 
What is the purpose of a test dose in epidural anesthesia?

14. 
Which local anesthetic is most commonly associated with transient neurological symptoms (TNS) after spinal anesthesia?

15. 
What is the primary determinant of block height in epidural anesthesia?

16. 
Which of the following complications is more common with spinal anesthesia than with epidural anesthesia?

17. 
What is the typical onset time for bupivacaine in spinal anesthesia?

18. 
Why is a hyperbaric solution used for spinal anesthesia in the sitting position?

19. 
What is the hallmark sign of accidental intravascular injection during epidural anesthesia?

20. 
Which patient position is recommended to minimize the risk of post-dural puncture headache?

Common Complications and Prevention

Whether you’re a student preparing for exams or a clinician aiming to improve patient outcomes, Anaesthesia Notes is here to guide you. Join our expanding community, and let’s improve anesthesiology together.

We welcome your feedback and suggestions. Together, we can make learning about spinal anesthesia complications and their prevention more effective and accessible.