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Spinal Block Dangers

A spinal block is often used during surgical or labor procedures to numb the lower extremities of the body, particularly the lower abdominal region, genital area, lower back, groin, legs and feet. A spinal block is administered into the spinal fluid surrounding the spine, using a small needle. The patient then experiences numbness from the waist down.

  1. Side Effects

    • Side effects are always possible with any form of anesthetic treatment. A spinal block may cause some or all of the following side effects: hypotension (low blood pressure), pruritus (itching), nausea, vomiting and a severe headache. Severe headaches are commonly reported in cases where the spinal block has caused spinal fluid to leak. If the patient experiences headache relief while lying down, it may be a sign of leaking spinal fluid.

    Risks

    • Risks associated with a spinal block include nerve damage, infection at the site of the injection, allergic reaction to the anesthesia, heart attack, convulsions and seizures. A pregnant woman may have difficulty pushing during labor if a spinal block is used. If a woman is unable to push, a doctor may call for the use of forceps, a vacuum or a cesarean section.

    Misconceptions

    • People commonly think that a spinal block and an epidural are the same procedure. According to Charlotte E. Grayson, MD "with a spinal, the medication is injected inside the dura, the tough coating surrounding the brain and spinal cord and located right next to the spine. During an epidural, medication is put inside the spinal column just outside the sac that surrounds the spinal cord." Epidurals deliver continuous anesthetics and spinal blocks deliver just one.

    Considerations

    • If you have any concerns about a spinal block, you should speak with your doctor. Discuss any medical problems you may have such as previous allergic reactions to anesthetics or prior surgeries. You need to let your doctor know if you have any heart problems.

    What You Should Know

    • A spinal block acts quickly to numb your body. You will be unable to move your feet and legs due to a loss of feeling in them. You will also lose control of you bladder so a doctor will most likely insert a catheter to empty your bladder for you. Spinal blocks use narcotics or anesthetics such as fetanyl, lidocaine and bupivacaine.

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