A Novel Technique of Epidural Catheter Fixation and Comparison between Three Different Approaches

Ruchi Singh; Neha Vyas Chansoria; Mayank Chansoria; Peeyush Shivhare; Chandan Sahu

Volume : VII, Issue : VI, June - 2018

A Novel Technique of Epidural Catheter Fixation and Comparison between Three Different Approaches

Ruchi Singh, Neha Vyas Chansoria, Mayank Chansoria, Peeyush Shivhare, Chandan Sahu

Abstract :

Introduction: Numerous fixation devices have been designed to tether the catheter to the skin, including simple adhesive devices and more complex catheter clamps that adhere to the skin (Lockit �, Portex, UK). Devices such as a balloon–tipped catheter (Patent No. US4973305) and a self– retaining catheter with wings that can be expanded outwards at the tip (Patent No. EP0931559) have not reached the market. It appears that the weak link in adhesive catheter fixation techniques is in the tethering of the adhesive to the skin.

Aim and objectives: Study was done to compare the traditional method of epidural catheter fixation, i.e, looping and tapping, used in our setup, with the newer techniques of fixation.

Material and Methods: 105 patients scheduled for elective abdominal (including gynaecological) surgeries, in whom epidural catheter fixation by looping and tapping in group of 35 patients, by subcutaneous tunnelling in another group, and by subcutaneous tunnelling with suturing and loping in group C, was placed for surgery and for postoperative analgesia for a minimum period of 24 hrs.

Results: The tunneling and looping technique showed more decrease in the incidence of dislodgement as compared to the simple looping and taping fixation (p=0.04). While the suturing and tunneling with looping technique showed no dislodgement.