Can i have epidural after back surgery

Microdiscectomy Microdecompression Spine Surgery. You are here Treatment Back Surgery. By Peter Ullrich, MD. Peer Reviewed. Editor's Top Picks.

Health Information Sponsored. Your spine specialist can work with you to determine the best positions to reduce the strain that giving birth places on your back and spine. Most women have no problem or complications from either procedure. Scar tissue can in some prevent the coverage of your epidural from feeling even. One side may feel noticeably more numb than the other. Pregnancy and bad back pain can certainly make you uncomfortable.

To stay safe, however, make sure you avoid certain over-the-counter pain medications altogether. These include:. Pregnancy and bad back problems are both manageable with proper medical attention and guidance. Contacting a spinal specialist early on in your pregnancy can spare you from unnecessary discomfort that can cast a shadow over such a joyous time in your life.

If Previously Compromised… If your back was already compromised leading into your pregnancy, the loosening of your supporting ligaments can end up being a considerable source of pain and discomfort. The medicine begins to take effect in about 10 to 20 minutes. It works well for longer procedures. Women often have an epidural during childbirth. A small tube catheter is often left in place. You can receive more medicine through the catheter to help control your pain during or after your procedure.

For a spinal: The doctor injects medicine into the fluid around your spinal cord. This is usually done only once, so you will not need to have a catheter placed. The medicine begins to take effect right away. Why the Procedure is Performed. Spinal anesthesia is often used for genital, urinary tract, or lower body procedures. Epidural anesthesia is often used during labor and delivery, and surgery in the pelvis and legs.

Epidural and spinal anesthesia are often used when: The procedure or labor is too painful without any pain medicine. The procedure is in the belly, legs, or feet. Your body can remain in a comfortable position during your procedure. You want fewer systemic medicines and less "hangover" than you would have from general anesthesia. Ask your doctor about these possible complications: Allergic reaction to the anesthesia used Bleeding around the spinal column hematoma Difficulty urinating Drop in blood pressure Infection in your spine meningitis or abscess Nerve damage Seizures this is rare Severe headache.

Before the Procedure. Tell your health care provider: If you are or could be pregnant What medicines you are taking, including medicines, supplements, or herbs you bought without a prescription During the days before the procedure: Tell your doctor about any allergies or health conditions you have, what medicines you are taking, and what anesthesia or sedation you have had before.

If your procedure is planned, you may be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen Advil, Motrin , warfarin Coumadin , and any other blood thinners.

Ask your doctor which medicines you should still take on the day of your procedure. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from the hospital or clinic. If you smoke, try to stop. Ask your provider for help quitting.