What are the risks of spinal or epidural anesthesia?
Many people fear that the needle penetrates the spinal cord, and can cause paralysis. Regional anesthesia places needles and medications near spinal nerve roots or peripheral nerves; the spinal cord is not entered. As with general anesthesia, some side effects can occur that vary with individual patients. Some have a short-term backache, and occasionally patients feel a headache. Your anesthesiologist is prepared to discuss regional anesthesia, including the potential risks, side effects and their treatments with you before proceeding.
