Comparison of incidence of PDPH between two different gauges of whitacre spinal needles in patients undergoing caesarean section

Abstract

Background: One of the complications of spinal anesthesia especially in pregnant women is post dural puncture headache (PDPH). Objectives of the study was to compare the incidence of PDPH between 25G and 27G Whitacre spinal needles and to compare the ease of lumbar puncture. Materials and Methods: Two hundred elective caesarean section patients were allocated into two groups of 100 each. In Group 1, Spinal anesthesia was given with 25 G and in group 2 with 27 G Whitacre needle. Results: Incidence of PDPH between two groups is not statistically significant with zero percent incidence. It was technically easier to perform lumbar puncture with 25 G Whitacre needle than 27 G needle which was statistically significant. Conclusion: It is technically easier to perform lumber puncture with 25G whitacre needle with no difference in the incidence of PDPH between 25G and 27G Whitacre needle.