− | '''Epidurals''' involve the insertion of a needle into the epidural space with the injection of the agent, causing desensitisation of nerves in or near the spinal cord. The meninges remains intact. It is usually performed at the lumbosacral junction. | + | '''Epidurals''' involve the insertion of a needle into the epidural space with the injection of the agent, causing desensitisation of nerves in or near the spinal cord. The meninges remains intact. It is usually performed at the lumbosacral junction. Patients can be placed in eithr lateral or sternal recumbancy so that the wings of ilia can be palpated. The lumbosacral junction is caudal to this and should be palpated between the seventh lumbar vertebra and sacral ridge. The site should be prepared aseptically. The epidural space is reached when a ''pop'' is felt, which describes the entry through the ligamentum flavum. |