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Paediatric spinal anaesthesia: Difference between revisions
→TECHNIQUE OF SA IN CHILDREN
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Lumbar puncture is performed at L3-L4 or L4-L5 level. Various sizes and lengths of needles are available depending on the child’s age. We use a 25G or 26G needle with stylet for neonates and infants (Figure 2). Using a needle without a stylet is not recommended since epithelial tissue can be deposited in the intrathecal space and may cause dermoid tumours of the neural axis. | Lumbar puncture is performed at L3-L4 or L4-L5 level. Various sizes and lengths of needles are available depending on the child’s age. We use a 25G or 26G needle with stylet for neonates and infants (Figure 2). Using a needle without a stylet is not recommended since epithelial tissue can be deposited in the intrathecal space and may cause dermoid tumours of the neural axis. | ||
[[File:SpinalNeedlesforSA.jpg|left|thumb|500x500px|Figure 2. <i>Different types of SA needles</i>]] | |||
A free flow of cerebrospinal fluid should be obtained when the spinal needle is advanced into the intrathecal space. The local anaesthetic syringe is attached and the anaesthetic solution is injected over 30 seconds (Figure 3). The legs should not be lifted after the spinal injection has been administered, otherwise an excessively high block will develop. | A free flow of cerebrospinal fluid should be obtained when the spinal needle is advanced into the intrathecal space. The local anaesthetic syringe is attached and the anaesthetic solution is injected over 30 seconds (Figure 3). The legs should not be lifted after the spinal injection has been administered, otherwise an excessively high block will develop. | ||