Postdural puncture headache in obstetrics.

PURPOSE

In this Continuing Professional Development module, we review the literature on postdural puncture headache (PDPH) in obstetrics. The pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and outcomes are discussed. We explore the evidence for prevention and treatment options of PDPH in obstetric patients and the importance of the anesthesiologist's role in caring for these patients.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

A PDPH is any headache that develops after a dural puncture and is not better accounted for by another diagnosis. Risk factors for PDPH include young age and female sex, which, along with the high rate of neuraxial anesthesia use in the obstetric population, predispose these patients to this complication. A spinal anesthesia technique using a small-gauge pencil-point needle with an experienced operator decreases the risk of PDPH. Individuals with PDPH have an increased risk of major neurologic complications, such as subdural hematoma, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, and bacterial meningitis. No pharmacological modalities have shown a benefit in preventing or treating PDPH. Epidural blood patch remains the most effective treatment for PDPH and should not be delayed in obstetric patients with severe symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Postpartum individuals cope with recovering from birth in addition to the demands of caring for a newborn. Often, the addition of a PDPH is incapacitating. Epidural blood patch should not be delayed in patients with early and severe symptoms. All individuals who experience PDPH should be assessed, receive appropriate treatment, and be reviewed by a member of the anesthesia team until symptoms have resolved, with appropriate follow-up instructions before discharge.