Intrathecal narcotics for labor using combined spinal epidural technique: an attractive option for solo anesthesia providers.

A 31-year-old primigravida woman presenting with term pregnancy was admitted for labor and delivery. After approximately 10 hours of labor, which included an oxytocin infusion, she requested anesthesia intervention. A combined spinal/epidural (CSE) block was administered featuring a 3 1/2-in, 18-gauge Hustead epidural needle into the epidural space, through which was placed a 4 11/16-in, 27-gauge Whitacre spinal needle into the subarachnoid space. Fifty micrograms of fentanyl, 0.25 mg of morphine, 0.2 mg of epinephrine, and 2 mL of perservative-free normal saline were given intrathecally, the spinal needle was withdrawn, and a catheter placed into the epidural space. Profound analgesia without motor impairment was achieved. After the patient failed to progress, 2% lidocaine was administered epidurally to provide anesthesia to a T4 level, and a cesarean section was performed. The CSE technique provides a safe, flexible choice of anesthesia for labor and delivery. Monitoring of the patient by the anesthetist is necessary for only the initial 30 minutes after block administration. This, coupled with the advantage of having an epidural catheter as a backup, makes it an especially attractive alternative for the solo anesthetist.