Definition Spinal Anaesthesia
Spinal anaesthesia (SPA) is one of the regional anaesthetics and is used to eliminate the perception of pain in certain regions of the body. Spinal anaesthesia is used primarily when operations are to be performed in this region of the body. In spinal anaesthesia, the anaesthetic (the so-called local anaesthetic) is injected by means of a needle in direct proximity to the spinal column.
Anatomically, the exact localization is called the spinal space. This space extends over the length of the entire spinal column and also contains the liquor. The area in which the sensation of pain is eliminated depends on the anatomical injection site on the back: In order to eliminate pain in the lower abdomen, an injection is required at the level of the (middle) thoracic spine, and an injection in the lumbar spine to numb the legs.
Fields of application
Spinal anaesthesia is the preferred method of choice in orthopaedics and gynaecology. However, urological interventions (urology) can also be performed using SPA. Frequently performed operations using spinal anesthesia are mainly
- Operations on the lower extremities
- Operations in the hip area
- Operations in the groin region
- Operations in the lower abdomen area
- Cesarean section and natural birth
- Surgery of the urethra and bladder
Spinal anaesthesia at birth
Spinal anesthesia is playing an increasingly important role in childbirth and is increasingly replacing epidural surgery. Spinal anaesthesia is used to relieve pain during birth or before a caesarean section. Its advantage over general anesthesia is that patients are awake even during the caesarean section.
This is often desired by expectant mothers, as they are reluctant to sleep through the birth process and want to hold their child in their arms immediately after birth. Compared to epidural, spinal anesthesia is considered less painful because a thin needle is inserted. When the spinal anesthesia takes effect, patients do not feel their lower abdomen or legs.
In addition, the muscle tone is lowered so that the legs cannot be moved willingly. Some patients initially find this very unfamiliar and unpleasant. However, a few hours after the anesthesia, the effect diminishes and sensitivity gradually returns. In summary, spinal anaesthesia is currently probably the most sensible non-invasive anaesthetic for childbirth, as it is also associated with relatively few risks.
