title: Spinal anaesthesia in poliomyelitis patients with scoliotic spine: A case control study.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  There is limited data to predict the course of sub-arachnoid block in poliomyelitis patients with scoliotic spine. So we intended to study the course of intrathecal anaesthesia in these patients in comparison to patients with normal spine using 0.5% bupivacaine (heavy).
  
  
  METHODS
  In this prospective observational study, 41 poliomyelitic patients scheduled for lower limb corrective surgeries under spinal anaesthesia were enrolled. Patients were studied in two groups (Scolotic spine, n=20; Normal spine, n=21). All patients were injected 2 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine heavy intrathecally in the sitting position. The extent of block, bilateral spread, regression of sensory block and motor block were recorded. Demographic data were analysed using the unpaired t test or the chi square test as applicable. Block characteristics were analysed using the Mann Whitney U test.
  
  
  RESULTS
  There was statistically significant difference in bilateral spread of sensory block in between the groups. However, there was no significant difference in the maximum extent of the sensory block and the time taken for two segment regression of sensory block. There was no significant difference in time taken to reach complete motor block and for complete recovery from motor block to its preoperative value.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Bilateral symmetrical spread of local anaesthetics through intrathecal route cannot be predicted accurately in patients with scoliotic spine. Spinal anaesthesia can be safely administered in poliomyelitis patients with scoliosis with less adverse effects.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anaesthesia, Balaji Institute of Surgery, Research and Rehabilitation for the Disabled, Trust Hospital, Tirupati, India.
authors.forename: Ballarapu Girija
authors.initials: BG
authors.lastname: Kumari
authors.forename: Aloka
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Samantaray
authors.forename: Veldurti Ananta Kiran
authors.initials: VA
authors.lastname: Kumar
authors.forename: Padmaja
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Durga
authors.forename: Gudaru
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Jagadesh
keywords: Anaesthesia; bupivacaine; orthopaedics surgery; poliomyelitis; scoliosis; spinal