Publication:

Comparison of post-dural puncture headache incidence among patients undergoing spinal anaesthesia for elective caesarean section by using quincke 25-G and 29-G spinal needles

Background Multiple complications including hypotension, nausea, vomiting, urinary retention, transient neurological symptoms and headache have been associated with spinal anaesthesia. Importantly, post dural puncture headache (PDPH) varies with the type and size of spinal needle employed for inducing anaesthesia. Here, we aimed to compare the frequency of PDPH in patients underwent spinal anaesthesia for elective caesarean section using 25-gauge (G) and 29-G Quincke spinal needle.

Methods We designed a randomized control trial at Obstetrics and Gynecology Operation Theatres, Jinnah Hospital, Lahore. A total of 152 patients having age 30.28±8.21 years were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups each comprising of 76 patients. In group 1, spinal anaesthesia was performed using 25-G Quincke spinal needle while in group 2 spinal anaesthesia was administered employing 29-G Quincke spinal needle. A standard dose of 10.5-12.0 mg (1.4-1.6 ml) of 0.75% bupivacaine is infiltrated in subarachnoid space at lumber region L3-L4 or L4-L5 following aseptic measures. The patients were evaluated for PDPH during the follow up period.

Results The previous history of PDPH was observed in 20.39% patients. The comparative study showed that the PDPH was observed in 12 (15.7%) patients in group 1 while the group 2 revealed PDPH in only 2 (2.6%) patients.

Conclusions Thus 29-G spinal needle can be regarded as a better option to reduce PDPH in patients subjected to spinal anaesthesia for elective cesarean in contrast to the use of 25-G Quincke spinal needle.