What is an epidural?
During an epidural, the signal transmission of the spinal cord nerves is interrupted by injecting a drug. The spinal cord runs along the spine in the spinal canal and transmits nerve signals between the brain and the body. With an PDA, sensitive nerve signals caused by pain, temperature or pressure no longer reach the brain. Likewise, movement impulses from the brain to the muscles are interrupted.
When is peridural anesthesia used?
Peridural anesthesia is a gentle alternative to general anesthesia for many operations. It can be used to anesthetize large areas of the body without the patient losing consciousness. It is also used for longer-term relief of acute and chronic pain. In addition, the procedure allows for a low-pain delivery, which is why many women request an epidural injection for delivery.
Further information: PDA Birth
What is done during an epidural anesthesia?
To numb the spinal nerves during a peridural anesthesia, the doctor inserts a special needle into the disinfected skin above the spine and advances it between two vertebrae. In the process, it penetrates various ligaments of the spine until it reaches the so-called peridural space. This area surrounds the so-called spinal meninges.
What are the risks of peridural anesthesia?
Other PDA side effects include temporary urinary retention, which must be treated with a urinary catheter, or a sudden drop in blood pressure. Headaches after PDA are usually caused by accidental perforation of the spinal cord skin. Usually, these can be treated well with painkillers.
