Thoracic epidural anesthesia for major abdominal surgery: a retrospective study
Ko, W.R.; Chao, C.C.; Wang, C.M.; Lin, C.H.; Chen, M.H.; Lin, H.J.; Lin, Y.K.
Acta Anaesthesiologica Sinica 32(1): 31-36
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0254-1319 PMID: 8199808 Document Number: 436088
In 1986-1988, the authors had experiences with thoracic epidural anesthesia for a variety of major abdominal operations in 303 patients. It is proved to be reliable and effective. The puncture levels were between T8 to T12. 2% lidocaine, in plain form or with 1:200,000 epinephrine, was used as anesthetic agent. Perioperative complications were carefully managed with satisfactory results. Post-operative conditions were evaluated and seemed to be superior to those of general anesthesia in many aspects. No patient had neurologic deficit as a result of the epidural anesthesia. We concluded that thoracic epidural anesthesia is an excellent alternative technique in major abdominal surgeries.