The use of low dose plain solutions of local anaesthetic agents for spinal anaesthesia in the prone position: bupivacaine compared with levobupivacaine.

In this study, we aimed to test the hypothesis that 1-ml plain solution of 0.5% bupivacaine or 0.5% levopubivacaine administered in a subarachnoid block can provide adequate anaesthesia and operating conditions for pilonidal cyst/sinus operations performed in the prone position. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of patient demographic data, duration of operation, patient-surgeon satisfaction, haemodynamic changes and side effects. There were no significant differences found in the onset time, highest block level achieved, two segment regression, time to S(2) regression of sensory block and the number of anaesthetised dermatomes, between the two groups (p = 0.077, 0.057, 0.091, 0.084 and 0.057 respectively). The incidence of complete motor blockade was 16% and 8% in Group B at the start and at the end of the operation. There was no complete motor blockade in Group L (p = 0.110 and 0.490 respectively). We conclude that both regimens are effective and safe for use in subarachnoid anaesthesia for pilonidal cyst/sinus operations performed in the prone position.