Definition | Reasons for Procedure | Possible Complications | What to Expect | Call Your Doctor

Definition

An epidural blood patch is when a small amount of blood is used to seal a puncture site in the spine as a result of a spinal tap procedure. The patch helps restore normal pressure in the spinal fluid.

Spinal Tap

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Reasons for Procedure

This procedure is done to relieve a spinal headache that does not go away on its own. A spinal headache can develop after a spinal tap procedure when too much spinal fluid leaks internally and reduces pressure in the spine.

This procedure is quite common and relief is often immediate.

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have an epidural blood patch, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

  • Bleeding
  • Bad reaction to the anesthesia, contrast dye solution, or sedative medicine (eg, light-headedness, low blood pressure, and/or wheezing)
  • Infection

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

  • Taking blood thinners prior to the procedure
  • Current infection

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the epidural blood patch.

What to Expect

Local anesthesia will be used at the puncture site, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure.

In the operating room, two IVs (needles) will be inserted in your arms for medicines and fluids and drawing blood. You may be given a sedative to ease anxiety.

You will lie face down on the table. The doctor will wash and sanitize your back. An x-ray machine may be used to help the doctor guide a small needle to the area where spinal fluid is leaking. Contrast dye solution will be injected and more x-rays will be taken. The doctor will draw a small amount of your blood and inject it into the correct area of the spine. This should clot, or seal, the leakage.

About 30 minutes

You will remain awake and be asked to lie still during the procedure. Local anesthesia injected should block any pain. You may feel a slight pressure during the procedure.

After resting, you may be able to go home the same day.

  • You will be taken to a recovery room for a few hours.
  • You will be asked to lie flat and still.
  • You will be monitored and given IV fluids.
  • After a few hours, you will be asked to get up and move around slowly.

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

  • Continue bed rest and gradual gentle movement for the first 24 hours.
  • For 2-3 days, avoid sudden movements, lifting, or strenuous physical activity.
  • Drink plenty of fluids. You may eat a normal diet.
  • Return to your activities as tolerated.
  • Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions .

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Continued pain or discomfort (beyond 24 hours)
  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Limb weakness, numbness, or unusual sensations
  • Trouble emptying bladder or bowels
  • Stiff neck

In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.