Spinal block

Aprilann
Aprilann Member Posts: 49
edited 23. Mar 2012, 05:54 in Living with Arthritis archive
Hi everyone

Does anyone have the same problem. I cannot have a general anaesthetic because of my lungs and so have to have a spinal block.

Twelve years ago I had a local anaesthetic (epidural) into my spine and it took the anaesthetist two hours to get it in (I found it a dreadful experience).

I am due to have both my feet operated on in a couple of weeks' time AND AM NOT LOOKING FORWARD TO THE BLOCK.

Comments

  • kellerman
    kellerman Member Posts: 741
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi,
    I've had an epidural twice. The last time was for cancer.
    They are a lot safer than a general and recovery is quicker.
    It really shouldn't take 2 hours and chances are this time it won't.
    They do have to make sure the anaesthetic is in the right place.
    Just relax as maybe it was a newbie and it was the 1st time he'd done one.
    I have no medical reason why I couldn't have had a general but being a retired nurse I like to know whats going on.
    I'm sure the folk on here will be very willing to provide pocket duties if you remind us nearer the time.
    May
  • hileena111
    hileena111 Member Posts: 7,099
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    I had a spinal block for my THR and they couldnt get that in either.
    Due to my kypho scoliosis....They did eventually but had to get someone else to do it.
    Talk to your surgeon and check who would be who would be giving it this time and make sure its not the same person. Thats what I did.

    Love
    Hileena
  • maria09
    maria09 Member Posts: 1,905
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Spinal anaesthetics are definately the best option
    The Anaesthetist should talk you through it as they are the ones doing it
    As with most things they have developed greatly over the past 12yrs since your last op
    One thing to remember is the cold spray they use prior to insertion of the epidural it doesnt hurt but is really really cold
    Im having foot surgery on Monday & hoping for either a spinal or a block I was told by preassessment nurse I was down to have a general anaesthetic I said no im not having 1 of them :!:
    Recovery is much quicker than a general & usually with out the nausea that comes with the other and especially if your chest is bad its the best option
    Hope that helps a bit
    Good Luck with your operation
    Maria

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