“Can someone with scoliosis get an epidural?”
My 17 year old daughter has scoliosis. I want to know if someone with scoliosis can get an epidural?
11 Answers
Yes
Yes.
Absolutely, no scoliosis itself is not a problem
Boris Yaguda M.D.
Boris Yaguda M.D.
Theoretically they can. Only extreme situations where the degree of scoliosis is quite significant may make an epidural placement quite challenging. Otherwise, most patients with scoliosis can get an epidural and have it work efficiently.
Some with scoliosis can get an epidural provided they haven't had surgery and their 'back'/vertebra aren't fused together. Fused vertebrae eliminate the epidural space (nearly always). No epidural space, no epidural block. Sometimes intrathecal injections are still possible.
Yes but may be more challenging
The answer is yes. Scoliosis per se is not a contraindication for regional anesthesia. In expert hands, it could be done.
Although it is more challenging, it is possible for her to get an epidural. That is, it is not contraindicated. It may be helpful for the anesthesiologist to review her radiograph prior to attempting placement.
Although sometimes scoliosis may make the epidural more difficult to place, she can most definitely have one for labor, surgery, etc.
A patient with moderate scoliosis could potentially receive an epidural for labor or pain control, although placement of an epidural catheter may be more challenging. Of course, epidural anesthesia for scoliosis surgery itself is not feasible.
It depends in the type of scoliosis and the experience and skill of the physician anesthesiologist. Ask for a consultation with an obstetric anesthesiologist.
