Acupuncture in the management of post-partum headache following neuraxial analgesia

Int J Obstet Anesth. 2009 Oct;18(4):417-9. doi: 10.1016/j.ijoa.2009.02.010. Epub 2009 Aug 8.

Abstract

Women presenting with low pressure post-partum headache following neuraxial techniques are frequently offered an epidural blood patch, despite its inherent risks. We present two parturients with classical symptoms of low-pressure headache, who each received neuraxial labour analgesia without a documented dural puncture with a Tuohy needle. Both parturients were successfully managed using acupuncture rather than an epidural blood patch.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acupuncture Analgesia*
  • Adult
  • Anesthesia, Epidural*
  • Anesthesia, Obstetrical*
  • Blood Patch, Epidural
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Post-Dural Puncture Headache / therapy*
  • Postpartum Period*
  • Risk