Subarachnoid anesthesia in young patients: A comparative analysis of two needle bevels

Background and Objectives. This prospective, randomized, double-blind study compares the efficacy of two spinal needles in terms of their performance characteristics and associated perioperative complaints in young patients. Methods. ASA I and II patients aged from 20 to 40 years undergoing lower li mb orthopedic surgery were included during a 12-month period. After applica tion of the protocol, 158 patients were recruited. The patients were random ized to two groups: group I: 26-gauge Atraucan (n = 79) and Group II: 27-ga uge Whitacre (n = 79). A study was made of the demographic parameters, tech nical characteristics, and peri- and postoperative complications. Results. No significant differences were found in the technical handling of the need les, number of attempts made to achieve the puncture, or the time required to perform the technique. No technical failures (spinal anesthesia inadequa te for the planned surgery) were reported, and the frequency of complicatio ns during the procedure was identical in both groups. Frequency of postdura l puncture headache (3.8%) or severity and duration showed no difference be tween the two groups. The overall assessment of postoperative complications revealed similar scores for both needles. Conclusions. Technical handling (ease with which block was performed) of the needles analyzed was extremely easy, showing a high success rate which associated with the similar incide nce of complications. Type of bevel does not appear to be a determining fac tor in the quality or morbidity associated with subarachnoid block when fin e-gauge needles are used in young patients.