Epidurals, not just for momma any more…
Actually, epidurals have been used to block pain for quite some time. Epidural and spinal blocks are types of anesthesia in which a local anesthetic is injected near the spinal cord and nerve roots. This process for managing pain is used mainly for surgery of the lower belly and the legs. Epidurals may also be used to help control pain after major surgeries to the belly or to the chest.
The history of epidurals…
One of the most talked about epidurals is the one used during childbirth. The labor and delivery epidural was invented by Dr. John Bonica in the 1930’s. He administered the first labor and delivery epidural on his own wife, who was in labor at the time.
Going back a bit further…
In 1921, Spanish military surgeon Fidel Pagés developed the single-shot lumbar epidural anesthesia technique, it was later made popular by the Italian surgeon Achille Mario Dogliotti.
Robert Andrew Hingson and Waldo B. Edwards developed the technique of continuous caudal anesthesia using an indwelling needle, in 1941. The first use of the continuous caudal anesthesia was in 1942, in a labouring woman.
In 1947, Manuel Martínez Curbelo was the first to describe placement of a lumbar epidural catheter.
So, how does it work?
Epidural anesthesia involves the insertion of a hollow needle and a small, flexible catheter into the space between the spinal column and outer membrane of the spinal cord (epidural space) in the middle or lower back. The area where the needle will be inserted is numbed with a local anesthetic. Then the needle is inserted and removed after the catheter has passed through it. The catheter remains in place. The anesthetic medicine is injected into the catheter to numb the body above and below the point of injection as needed. The catheter is secured on the back so it can be used again if more medicine is needed.
Epidurals are usually combined with other medicines that make you relaxed or sleepy or relieve pain. These other medicines are often given through a vein. They may also be injected into the epidural space along with the local anesthetic.
Patients are monitored closely when receiving an epidural to ensure that the anesthetics do not negatively affect the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and respiratory system. Epidural anesthesia may also affect blood pressure, breathing, heartbeat, and other vital functions.
Visit us again next week, to learn more about the use of epidurals in pain management.
If you, or a loved one, is suffering from acute or chronic pain, give us a call and we’ll provide you with the step-by-step process of scheduling an appointment with Dr. Lipson.
Contact Central Florida Pain Management Today, Your Pain Free Life Is Waiting…
Dr. Ana Lipson
Central Florida Pain Management
410 First Street South
Winter Haven FL 33880
Phone: 863-293-4800
Web Site: http://www.analipsonmd.com/
Ana Lipson MD, Central Florida Pain Management 