Kishan Rao B 1 , Prakash Rao N 2 , S. G. K. Murthy3
OBJECTIVE: To compare and evaluate the success rate of modified drip method (MDM) with the conventional loss of resistance (LOR) technique in locating the lumbar epidural space. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred twenty patients of either sex, belonging to American society of Anesthesiologists physical status class 1 or 2 scheduled to undergo elective surgeries were randomly assigned to one of the two groups (60 each) depending on epidural space localization. In LOR group, epidural space localization was done by using conventional loss of resistance technique to the injection of air. In MDM group, epidural space was localized by using modified drip method. Time taken for epidural space localization (T1), time taken to thread epidural catheter (T2) and quality of the block were recorded. RESULTS: Success rate for epidural space localization was higher (90%) in MDM group compared to the LOR group (70%) but the difference was found to be statistically non-significant. T1 was more in MDM group whereas it was reverse in case of T2. Complications were almost negligible in MDM. CONCLUSION: Modified drip method is viable alternative to the conventional loss of resistance technique for identifying lumbar epidural space.
