Incremental spinal anaesthesia using a 32-gauge catheter

Incremental spinal anaesthesia using a 32-gauge intrathecal catheter was studied in 13 males scheduled for transurethral resection of the prostate or repair of inguinal hernia. The spinal technique failed in four patients. Dose-response curves were obtained in the remaining nine patients using increments of 0.5% plain bupivacaine. The spinal block was extended safely and reliably without cardiovascular instability. No patient had any postoperative headache and all catheters were removed intact.