G Mychaskiw1, T Panigrahi, T Ray, S Shah. 1. Department of Anesthesiology, University of Mississippi School of Medicine, Jackson, Mississippi, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: In this case report the authors discuss a technique occasionally employed at their institution to aid in identification of the epidural space in morbidly obese parturients. CASE REPORT: A 29-year-old primagravida, with a body mass index of 90 (155 cm tall, 215 kg) presented for induction of labor. A 27-ga. Sprotte spinal needle was intentionally passed through a Weiss epidural needle and into the subarachnoid space to confirm placement of the Weiss needle in the epidural space. An epidural catheter was then placed which functioned well for labor and subsequent caesarian delivery. CONCLUSIONS: In selected patients, intentional puncture of the dura can aid in confirmation of the epidural space.
OBJECTIVE: In this case report the authors discuss a technique occasionally employed at their institution to aid in identification of the epidural space in morbidly obese parturients. CASE REPORT: A 29-year-old primagravida, with a body mass index of 90 (155 cm tall, 215 kg) presented for induction of labor. A 27-ga. Sprotte spinal needle was intentionally passed through a Weiss epidural needle and into the subarachnoid space to confirm placement of the Weiss needle in the epidural space. An epidural catheter was then placed which functioned well for labor and subsequent caesarian delivery. CONCLUSIONS: In selected patients, intentional puncture of the dura can aid in confirmation of the epidural space.