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Spinal, Epidural, and Caudal Anesthesia in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Spinal, epidural, and caudal anesthesia are used to block pain from an entire area of the body. They're often used for surgeries on the belly, legs, groin or genitals.

For spinal anesthesia, a single shot of medicine is given near the spinal cord. For epidural anesthesia, medicine is usually given through a small tube (catheter) that's inserted into the epidural space near the spinal cord. This tube is left in place so that more medicine can be given as needed. Caudal anesthesia is medicine put into the lower part of your child's back in the epidural space near the nerves at the end of the tailbone. Sometimes a catheter is also used.

Sometimes both spinal and epidural medicines are used. Spinal medicine offers quick pain relief. Then the epidural medicine can offer relief for longer.

Side effects can include a headache or nausea. There may be soreness at the injection site on the back. Serious side effects, such as nerve damage, are rare.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

  • Follow all instructions from your child's doctor about how to take care of the area that was numbed.
  • Make sure your child doesn't injure the area while it's still numb.
    • Remind them that if they move the area, to move it slowly and carefully.
    • Be careful with hot and cold. Since your child won't feel pain, it's easier for damage from heat or cold to happen.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your child has new or worse back pain.
  • Your child has increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness at the injection site.
  • Your child won't stop crying or seems very irritable.
  • Your child has a fever.
  • Your child has a new or worse headache.
  • Your child has a stiff neck.
  • Your child has tingling, weakness, or numbness in their legs or groin.
  • Your child has trouble urinating or can pass only very small amounts of urine.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • Your child does not get better as expected.
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