Technical problems with 32-gauge microcatheters in continuous spinal anaesthesia.

Technical problems with microspinal catheters for continuous spinal anaesthesia (CSA) are not unknown. The present case report deals with two unusual technical complications in CSA with 32-gauge spinal catheters. The first case shows a catheter with extraordinary elongation due to breakage of the embedded stylet. The second case shows a tear in the extracorporeal part of the catheter with leakage of the local anaesthetic and consequently failed spinal anaesthesia.