Spinal anesthesia: procedures, safety, risks, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is spinal anesthesia?

Spinal anesthesia is administered by injecting a local anesthetic and other painkillers into an area near the patient's spinal cord called the subarachnoid space. This anesthetic numbs the nerves so that the patient cannot feel pain in certain areas of the body. For its use, spinal anesthesia can be used separately when the patient is conscious, or in conjunction with the administration of anesthesia or general anesthesia. In addition, this anesthetic can also be used postoperatively and has been shown to be effective in relieving pain in the patient's body. The anesthetist will perform the procedure for injecting anesthesia through a syringe.

When do I need to get spinal anesthesia?

In most cases, spinal anesthesia is suitable for operations involving the lower waist area. The benefits of spinal anesthesia depend on the health condition of each patient. Anesthetists are always available to assist patients in choosing the appropriate anesthesia.

Spinal anesthesia is often used to:

• orthopedic surgery on the joints or bones of the legs
• treatment of hernias in the groin, varicose veins, hemorrhoid surgery (hemorrhoids)
• vascular surgery: surgery on the veins in the leg)
• gynecology: prolapse and some types of hysterectomy
• obstetrics: cesarean section
• urology: prostate surgery, bladder surgery, genital surgery

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before getting spinal anesthesia?

As an alternative, spinal anesthesia can be used for operations below the waist. An anesthetic will be injected into the back so that the lower back area will be numbed and surgery can be performed. The use of spinal anesthesia is safe and comfortable for many people, depending on the medical condition and the type of surgery the patient is undergoing. Generally, the side effect of using spinal anesthesia is the appearance of headaches. But don't worry because this effect can be treated easily.

Under the use of spinal anesthesia, the patient can:

• totally conscious
• semi-conscious - using drugs that make the patient relaxed and drowsy but still conscious
• unconscious (general anesthesia)

Anesthetists will be on hand to help patients choose the appropriate anesthesia

Process

What is the process of administering spinal anesthesia?

This anesthetic will be given by the anesthetist via injection. This procedure is painless although it can be uncomfortable for the patient. The medication will usually last one to three hours. With the right dose, the doctor will ensure that the anesthesia lasts longer than the duration of the operation that the patient will undergo.

What should I do after receiving spinal anesthesia?

It usually takes your body about one to four hours to recover. Notify the nurse if there are complaints during this recovery process. When the effects of the drug wear off, your skin may experience tingling. In addition, you may start to feel pain in the area where the surgery was used. Because of this, painkillers may be needed before the pain gets worse. You may feel lightheaded the first time you get out of bed. Ask the nurse to help you stand up. After an hour after surgery, you will usually be allowed to drink as well as eat soft foods.

Complications

What complications can occur?

• spinal anesthesia failed
• low blood pressure
• headache
• itchy rash
• difficulty urinating
• back pain
• hearing loss or changes
• cardiovascular collapse
• high block
• infection around the spine
• nerve damage
• paralysis or death

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.