A study to evaluate efficacy and safety of continuous spinal anaesthesia for elderly patients

Punam Raghove; Karampal Singh; Susheela Taxak; Sarla Hooda

Volume : V, Issue : XII, December - 2015

A study to evaluate efficacy and safety of continuous spinal anaesthesia for elderly patients

Punam Raghove, Karampal Singh, Susheela Taxak, Sarla Hooda

Abstract :

Objective: Continuous spinal anaesthesia (CSA) is a well versatile technique that has been used successfully for various surgical procedures. Despite its advantages it is an underutilized technique due to fear of post–duralpuncture headache (PDPH) and neurological damage associated with this. We used this technique in 25 elderly patients to evaluate its efficacy and safety. Methods: 25 elderly patients with co–morbidity were scheduled for surgery under CSA. Lumber puncture was done at level of L3–4 with 19 or 20 G epidural tuohy needle and epidural catheter was threaded 3–5 cm. in subarachnoid space. After confirming proper position of catheter bupivacaine 0.5% (heavy) 1ml was given. Bupivacaine in dose of 0.2ml was repeated to achieve adequate level of anaesthesia or when there was patient discomfort. Results: CSA technique was successful in all patients. None of our patients had PDPH or neurological side–effects. CSA provided excellent hemodynamic stability. Conclusions: CSA with standard epidural catheters is safe and successful technique for anaesthesia in elderly patients with co morbidities. It provides better hemodynamic stability during the peri–operative period.