Spinalanästhesie

Spinalanästhesie, also known as spinal anesthesia or subarachnoid block, is a regional anesthesia technique used to numb a large area of the lower body. It is administered by injecting a local anesthetic drug directly into the cerebrospinal fluid within the subarachnoid space of the spinal canal. This space is located below the dura mater, the outermost membrane surrounding the spinal cord.

The procedure typically involves the patient sitting or lying on their side. A trained anesthesiologist identifies a suitable space between the vertebrae in the lower back, usually in the lumbar region. After sterilizing the area, a fine needle is inserted to reach the subarachnoid space. Once the cerebrospinal fluid is observed flowing back, the anesthetic medication is injected. The needle is then removed.

The effects of spinal anesthesia are usually rapid, with numbness and muscle weakness developing within minutes. The level of anesthesia can be controlled by the type and amount of anesthetic used, as well as the patient's position after injection. Spinal anesthesia provides profound pain relief and muscle relaxation in the lower abdomen, pelvis, and legs. It is commonly used for surgical procedures such as Cesarean sections, hip and knee replacements, and other lower extremity surgeries, as well as for certain diagnostic procedures.

Potential side effects are generally mild and temporary, and may include a drop in blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, or temporary difficulty urinating. A less common complication is a post-dural puncture headache, which can occur if the dura mater is inadvertently punctured during needle insertion and a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid leaks. Spinal anesthesia is considered a safe and effective anesthetic technique when administered by experienced medical professionals.