Comparison of sequential combined spinal epidural anaesthesia and spinal anaesthesia in lower limb surgery: A prospective randomised double blind study

Introduction: Spinal anaesthesia is a popular anaesthesia technique for lower limb surgeries. The haemodynamic changes that occur, may be sudden and deleterious, particularly in geriatric patients. Moreover the duration of spinal anaesthesia is limited. Thus, a safer approach of sequential combined spinal epidural (SCSE) anaesthesia is emerging currently. The technique combines benefits of both. Aim: To evaluate the changes in hemodynamic parameters while using SCSE block and spinal anaesthesia for lower limb surgeries. Study Design: A prospective, randomised, double blind study. Materials and Methods: Sixty ASA grade I and II physical status, who underwent lower limb procedures were included in the study. They were divided equally into Group I (spinal) and Group II (SCSE). The haemodynamic parameters in the two groups was observed. Results: From 2 minutes to 20 minutes, there was statistically significant rise in pulse rate in group I, associated with decrease in blood pressure in group I (p value<0> Conclusion: Sequential combined spinal epiduralblock maintains hemodynamic stability with minimal complications as compared to spinal anaesthesia. Key messages: Sequential spinal epidural anaesthesia maintains cardiovascular stability.