Spinal anesthesia is a form of regional anesthesia in which anesthetic medication is injected into the cerebrospinal fluid around the spinal cord to temporarily block sensation and movement below the level of the block.
Spinal anesthesia is the most common anesthetic used for planned cesarean sections. It works quickly and provides excellent pain relief while allowing the mother to remain awake during the birth. It is also commonly used for other procedures involving the lower abdomen, pelvis, and lower limbs.
Although the lower body becomes numb, patients may still feel pressure, pulling, or movement during surgery. These sensations are normal and should not be painful.
QUICK FACT
Spinal anesthesia usually begins working within a few minutes and often lasts long enough for the entire operation.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Epidural: A spinal anesthetic is usually a single injection into cerebrospinal fluid, whereas an epidural delivers medication into the epidural space and can usually be adjusted through a catheter.
- General anesthesia: produces unconsciousness and does not rely on a regional nerve block.
SEE ALSO