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Epidural anesthesia involves putting a sterile guide needle and a small tube (epidural catheter) into the space around the spinal cord (epidural space). The epidural catheter is placed at or below the waist.
The guide needle is inserted and removed, while the catheter remains in place. The catheter is taped in place up the centre of your back and at the top of your shoulder.
Medicine is injected into the catheter to numb your body below the insertion site. This will help relieve pain during labour and birth.
Current as of: November 9, 2022
Author: Healthwise StaffMedical Review: Sarah Marshall MD - Family MedicineAdam Husney MD - Family MedicineKathleen Romito MD - Family MedicineJohn M. Freedman MD - AnesthesiologyJoLynn Montgomery PA - Family Medicine
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & John M. Freedman MD - Anesthesiology & JoLynn Montgomery PA - Family Medicine
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