Pressure and flow-profile of different spinal needles
Hansen, M.; Braun, K.B.; Poulsen, M.R.
Ugeskrift for Laeger 157(21): 3059-3060
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0041-5782 PMID: 7792961 Document Number: 449149
The flow characteristics of four different types of spinal needles were investigated by measuring the infusion pressure during steady state infusion of either saline or an X-ray contrast agent. Two pencilpoint needles, a Whitacre 22Gauge and a Sprotte 24Gauge, possessed flow characteristics similar to a 22Gauge Quincke point needle. Use of pencilpoint needles for spinal anaesthesia results in a lower incidence of postdural puncture headache compared to the Quincke point needle. We therefore recommended the use of pencilpoint needles for myelography.