Characteristics of sphenopalatine blocks in the treatment of postdural puncture headaches.

Conditions

None listed

Brief summary

We are attempting to conduct a study examining the characteristics of the sphenopalatine block when used in the treatment of postdural puncture headaches-which is a not infrequent and expected complication of both spinal and epidural anaesthesia. The sphenopalatine block is a relatively non-invasive alternative way of treating these headaches and is currently in use and offered as a therapeutic option at the Mater Mothers and Adults Brisbane. The study aims to describe the physiological effects of this block . We plan on conducting our research by collecting additional information from patients that have elected to have this procedure as part of their treatment.

Related papers

No related papers found yet.

Interventions

Acquisiton of additional data from patients who have elected to undergo a sphenopalatine block for the treatment of their postdural puncture headache. This involves additional assessments at 30mins, 1 hour and hourly until the return of gag reflex. It is anticipated that this will involve 3 assessments for most patients (30min, 1hr and 2hr)immeadiately post block performance. Each assessment lasts <5mins. Patients will be followed up the following day and the day after (day 1 and 2)-which will r

Acquisiton of additional data from patients who have elected to undergo a sphenopalatine block for the treatment of their postdural puncture headache. This involves additional assessments at 30mins, 1 hour and hourly until the return of gag reflex. It is anticipated that this will involve 3 assessments for most patients (30min, 1hr and 2hr)immeadiately post block performance. Each assessment lasts <5mins. Patients will be followed up the following day and the day after (day 1 and 2)-which will routinely occur as part of the management of patients suffering from a PDPH and at one week(phone review)-again which would happen to patients suffering from a PDPH. Again these assessments will last <5mins.

Eligibility

Sex/Gender

All

Age

16 Years to 70 Years

Healthy volunteers

No

Inclusion criteria

Consenting adult patients Headache that is postural in nature Recent spinal or epidural anaesthetic

Exclusion criteria

Refusal to consent Headache that is not clinically consistent with a postdural puncture headache Unable to consent without the aid of a third party

Outcome results