Understanding Anesthesiology - The Global Regional Anesthesia ...

Epidural analgesia
In epidural analgesia, a tiny plastic catheter is placed into the epidural space through which
local anesthetics and/or opioids are delivered.
The concentration of local anesthesia used for epidural analgesia is lower than that used
with epidural anesthesia. When dilute local anesthetics are used, the patient still retains
some degree of motor function.
Epidural analgesia is commonly used for labouring parturients as well as for postoperative
patients.
Epidural catheters placed for surgical analgesia are most commonly placed at the thoracic or
lumbar regions, depending on the site of the surgery. The catheter can be left in place for
days or for as long as 2 weeks, as needed.
For labour, epidural catheters are placed in the lower lumbar region. If a Caesarian section is
required, the catheter can be used to establish adequate epidural anesthesia for operative delivery.
Related Glossary Terms
Analgesia, Bupivacaine, Dura, Epidural anesthesia, Epidural space, Fentanyl, Lidocaine, Local
anesthetic toxicity, Morphine Sulfate, Parturient, Patient controlled analgesia, Regional
anesthesia, Second stage of labour, Sympathetic nervous system
Index
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Chapter 4 - Post-operative Pain Management
Chapter 4 - Post-operative Pain Management
Chapter 4 - Post-operative Pain Management
Chapter 5 - Obstetrical Anesthesia
Chapter 5 - Anesthesia Outside the Operating Room