How is the spinal performed?
Your anaesthetist will discuss the procedure with you beforehand on the ward. You will meet an anaesthetic assistant who will stay with you during your time in the theatre. A needle will be used to insert a thin plastic tube (a ‘cannula’) into a vein in your hand or arm and then the staff looking after you will help you into the correct position for the spinal. You will either sit on the side of the bed with your feet on a low stool or lie on your side, curled up with your knees tucked up towards your chest. In either case, the staff will support and reassure you during the injection. The anaesthetist will explain what is happening throughout the process so that you are aware of what is taking place “behind your back”. Your anaesthetist will give you the spinal injection and stay with you throughout the operation. As the spinal begins to take effect, your anaesthetist will measure its progress and test its effectiveness.
