Why obstetric epidurals fail: a study of epidurograms.
In a study of the factors involved in the occasional failure of continuous obstetric epidural blockade, contrast injections through epidural catheters and radiographic screening were undertaken in 35 postpartum patients. The two major causes of inadequate block were found to be transforaminal escape of the catheter tip, and persistent unilateral block associated with an obstructive barrier in the epidural space. Recommendations for overcoming these problems are discussed.
Department of Anaesthetics, Royal Hospital for Women, Paddington, New South Wales, Australia.
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Collier