Post Dural Puncture Headache After Spinal Anaesthesia and Chance Of Spinal Failure: A Comparative Study Using 23 G Quincke, 25G Quincke, And 25 G Whitacre Needle

Abstract

Objective: To compare the frequency and severity of postdural puncture headache (PDPH) and technical difficulties in patient of age 18 -60 year planed for lower abdominal surgery. Method: 75 patient of age group 18-60 years with ASA I and ASA II, scheduled for abdominal surgery in spinal anaesthesia were taken and were divided into three groups of 25 patient each, accordingly to the size and shape of the needle, 23 G Quincke (Group I) , 25 G Quincke (Group II) and 25 G Whitacre (Group III) . Parameters observed are frequency of PDPH, severity of PDPH and technical problem in term of number of attempt and failure rate. Result: The incidence of PDPH was 24% in Group I, 12% in Group II, and 4% in Group III. (p –value >0.05), Group III patient were having very mild headache. Subarachnoid space was located successfully in first attempt in 92% cases in Group I, 52% cases in Group II , 40% cases in Group III . Conclusion: 25 G Whitacre needle seems to be suitable choice in patient because of its ease of handling with low incidence PDPH.