A randomized trial of the traditional sitting position versus the hamstring stretch position for labor epidural needle placement.
BACKGROUND
Anecdotal and experimental evidence suggest that a sitting position with maximum knee extension, hip adduction, and forward lean (hamstring stretch position) may produce better reversal of the lumbar lordosis than a traditional sitting position.


METHODS
In a randomized trial during initiation of epidural labor analgesia, we compared the traditional versus hamstring stretch positions. The primary outcome was the number of needle-bone contacts.


RESULTS
The groups were equivalent with respect to the number of needle-bone contacts.


CONCLUSIONS
The hamstring stretch position is equivalent to the traditional sitting position in terms of the number of needle-bone contacts encountered when placing labor epidural needles.
Fisher
Kyle S
KS
Watauga Anesthesia Associates, PA, USA. kylefisher@bellsouth.ne
Arnholt
Alan T
AT
Douglas
Michal E
ME
Vandiver
Scott L
SL
Nguyen
Daniel H
DH
D000328:Adult; D000767:Anesthesia, Epidural / Q000009:adverse effects; D000773:Anesthesia, Obstetrical / Q000009:adverse effects; D015992:Body Mass Index; D001842:Bone and Bones; D004824:Epidural Space / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009339:Needles; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D013131:Spine / Q000502:physiology; D016896:Treatment Outcome