What is a spinal block and how is it performed?
A spinal block is similar to an epidural. It is performed in the operating room just prior to surgery. You will either be sitting upright or laying on your side. After cleaning the lower portion of your back, a small needle will be used to administer a numbing shot on your skin. Following this, a long, thin needle will be inserted into your back into the spinal space, where a small amount of numbing medication will be injected. The needle is then removed and you will be placed flat on your back. You should experience almost immediate numbness of your abdomen and legs.
