Epidural or epidural anesthesia is a type of anesthesia that blocks the pain and sensations of only one region of the body, usually from the waist down. It is made so that the person can stay awake during surgery because it does not affect the level of consciousness, and is usually used during simple surgical procedures, such as during normal delivery or in small surgeries such as gynecological or aesthetic, for example .
To perform the epidural, the anesthetic medicine is applied in the vertebral space to reach the nerves of the region, having a temporary action, controlled by the doctor. It is done in any hospital with a surgical center, by the anesthetist, and its price is between 400 and 1000 reais, which is quite variable depending on the doctor and the hospital where it is performed.
Epidural anesthesia is similar to spinal anesthesia, however, whereas in epidural anesthesia the anesthetic is administered in the space around the spinal canal in greater quantity and by a catheter that is in the back, spinal anesthesia is applied inside the spinal column, at one time and in smaller quantity. In addition, when deeper anesthesia is required, general anesthesia is indicated. Learn how general anesthesia and its risks work.
How is it done?
Epidural anesthesia is usually used in small surgeries and is very common during normal labor, because it prevents pain during labor and does not harm the baby.
During anesthesia, the patient remains seated and leaned forward or lying on the side, with the knees and the chin folded. The anesthesiologist then opens the spaces between the vertebrae of the spine by hand, applies a local anesthetic to reduce discomfort, and inserts the needle and a thin plastic tube, called the catheter, which passes through the center of the needle.
With the catheter inserted, the doctor injects through the tube the anesthetic medicine and, although it does not hurt, it is possible to feel a slight and gentle sting when the needle is placed, followed by a pressure and sensation of heat when the medicine is applied. The doctor can control the amount and duration, and it is sometimes possible to combine the epidural with the spinal cord for a faster effect.
Possible risks
The risks of epidural anesthesia are rare, however, there may be:
- Chills and fever;
- Infection;
- Damage to nerves;
- Perforation of the membrane that protects the spinal cord, called the dura mater, and may cause paraplegia.
In addition, it is also common to feel headaches after waking up from surgery due to anesthesia. Find out what are the main precautions to take before and after surgery to avoid the risks and recover faster.
