Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Peridural Space

Abstract

Peridural anaesthesia has a number of advantages to the patient. For instance, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) does not occur with this method. In addition the continuous catheter method permits precise regulation of the anaesthetic process itself as well as its maintenance and distribution. In contrast to general anaesthesia, peridural anaesthesia does not affect the life-preserving centres since it is restricted to the extradural nerve segments. Its therapeutic advantages are: increased vascular blood flow of the involved segments; active and passive mobilisation of joints; suitability in the treatment of pain by means of peridural opiate analgesia, for analgesia during labour, for surgical treatment, and when muscle relaxation is necessary. The patient can be awake or sedated, or a combination can be obtained with general anaesthia, and postoperative pain can be controlled.