Have you ever had a severe headache after a spinal tap, or an epidural to deliver your baby? This headache, which is especially bothersome when you stand up or stand, but decreases when you lie down, is very annoying, isn't it? Today we are talking about a special treatment that doctors recommend when there is no relief from ordinary painkillers. That is the treatment method called the Epidural Blood Patch.
What is an epidural blood patch?
Simply put, this involves taking some of your own blood and injecting it into the space around your spinal cord called the 'epidural space'. Now you might be thinking, "Why am I getting my own blood injected again?"
This is why. As we mentioned earlier, when you have a lumbar puncture or an epidural, a small hole can form in the dura mater (the membrane that surrounds the spinal cord). This allows some of the precious fluid inside it, called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), to leak out. When this fluid becomes depleted, you can experience a severe headache that makes it difficult to hold your head up straight.
So this blood patch does two main things:
1. Stops the leak: Once your blood is injected into the epidural space, the blood clots and seals the small hole. It's like putting on a band-aid. This stops the CSF fluid from leaking out.
2. Pressure is restored: When some blood is added to the space, the pressure lost inside is restored to some extent and the headache quickly subsides.
This is an elective procedure that is performed on the recommendation of a doctor and can be chosen according to your wishes.
When is this treatment needed?
If you have a severe spinal headache that doesn't go away with standard treatments, your doctor may suggest this blood patch. Usually, the first thing to try is:
- Stay in bed and rest as much as possible.
- Drink plenty of water and fluids (perhaps IV fluids, i.e. saline, may also be given).
- Using medications such as painkillers (NSAIDs).
- Drink beverages containing caffeine, such as coffee.
But if these treatments don't relieve the headache, or if you can't stay in bed (for example, a new mother who has a baby or someone who needs to go to work quickly), a blood patch is a good solution.
A spinal headache occurs especially after situations like these:
- After taking fluid from the spine (Spinal tap / Lumbar Puncture).
- After an epidural, which is given to reduce pain during childbirth or surgery.
- If the membrane covering the spinal cord (dura) is damaged during back surgery or an accident.
How do you prepare before treatment?
Don't worry, your doctor will explain the procedure, its pros and cons, and how it works. You may be advised to avoid eating or drinking for about 8 hours before the procedure. Also, be sure to tell your doctor the following:
- If you are taking anything like blood thinners (anticoagulants).
- If you have diabetes and use insulin.
- If you have allergies to any medications, especially anesthetics.
- If you are pregnant.
How to make a Blood Patch step by step
The method of this treatment is very simple. Let's see what happens step by step.
| Step | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 1. Posture | You will be asked to turn to your side and lie down or sit down. The most important thing is to stay still during this time. |
| 2. Cleaning | The area where the needle is inserted in the back and the area where the blood is drawn in the arm are thoroughly cleaned with disinfectant. |
| 3. Numbness | To reduce pain, a local anesthetic is injected into the area where the needle is inserted. |
| 4. Blood collection | A cannula (IV catheter) is inserted into a vein in your arm and about 15-20 milliliters of your own blood is taken. |
| 5. Inserting the needle | An anesthesiologist or radiologist inserts a special needle into the epidural space in the back, sometimes using ultrasound to guide the exact location. |
| 6. Bloodletting | The blood drawn from the arm is slowly injected into the back over 30-60 seconds. At this time, you may feel a slight pain or tightness in your back. You should tell the doctor immediately what you are feeling. |
| 7. Closing | The needle is removed and a bandage is applied to the area. That's it. |
What happens after treatment?
Many people experience immediate relief from headaches after undergoing this treatment. That is the biggest benefit of this treatment.
After the treatment, you will be taken to the recovery room to rest for a while. After that, you can go home. The doctor will advise you to avoid strenuous activities, lifting heavy objects, and bending for 24 hours . After that, you can return to your normal activities.
Does this make you dream?
Usually, adults are not completely sedated during this treatment. This is because you need to tell the doctor what you feel when the blood is injected into your back. However, only the injection site is numbed so that you do not feel the pain. However, if you have any concerns or worries about this, be sure to tell your doctor. Young children may be sedated during this treatment.
Benefits and possible complications of the Blood Patch
As with any medical treatment, there are benefits as well as some minor risks.
| Benefits | Side Effects & Complications |
|---|---|
| Fast and long-lasting relief. Provides immediate relief from a severe headache that can last up to two weeks. Much more effective than a temporary solution like painkillers. |
|
According to studies, this treatment is successful in 85 out of 100 people (85%). If the first time fails, a second blood patch has a 90% success rate.
When should I call the doctor immediately?
If you develop any signs of infection after your treatment, you should contact your doctor immediately . Watch for these signs:
- Redness, discoloration, pain, and pus at the injection site.
- Fever .
- Feeling very tired .
If you see something like this, don't delay. Seek medical advice immediately.
Take-Home Message
- "Spinal headache" is not an ordinary headache. The Epidural Blood Patch is a very effective solution for this pain, which is worse when you stand up.
- In this, a little of your own blood is injected into the spine. So there is nothing to be afraid of. This is considered a very safe treatment.
- The treatment is about 85% successful. But like everything, there is a small risk. Talk to your doctor openly about it and ask any questions you have.
- If you notice anything after treatment, such as fever, swelling, redness, or pus at the injection site , seek medical advice immediately .
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