A Clinical Comparison between Single-Space Technique and Double-Space Technique for Combined Spinal and Epidural Anesthesia

BACKGROUND: Combined spinal and epidural anesthesia (CSEA) is commonly performed by double space technique (DST) and single space segment technique (SST) or needle-through-needle technique (NNT). AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: We designed a double-blind randomized controlled study to compare the effect of the double-space technique with that of the single-space technique on time required by the procedure, the number of attempts, and a level of sensory, side effects and cost-effectiveness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients undergoing elective lower abdominal and lower limb surgeries under regional anesthesia were randomized to receive CSEA with either the double-space technique (double group, n = 30) or the single-space technique (single group, n = 30). In the single group, the procedure was performed at the L3-4 interspace using the needle-through-needle technique. In the double group, an epidural catheter was inserted at the L1–2 interspace, and dural puncture was performed at the L3–4 interspace. RESULTS: The single space (needle-through-needle) technique for CSE takes less time, less number of spinal punctures. There was no difference between the two groups in terms of side effects. Sensory level at T10 on 5 min in group I was 90% and group II was 100% whereas at T8 it was 10% in group I; sensory level at T10, T8 and T6 on 10 min. in group I were 53.3%, 43.3% and 3.3% respectively whereas in group II were 80%, 16.7% and 3.3% respectively; sensory level at T10, T8, T6 and T4 on 15 min. in group I were 6.7%, 43.3%, 50% and 0% respectively whereas in group II were 23.3%, 50%, 23.3% and 3.3% respectively; and sensory level at T4, T6 and T8 on 20 min. in group I were 0%, 73.3% and 26.7% respectively whereas in group II were 16.7%, 33.3% and 50% respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Single-space (needle-through-needle) CSEA takes less time, less number of spinal punctures and results in improved patient satisfaction. There were no differences in intraoperative variables between the DST and SST for CSEA.