Unilateral spinal anaesthesia aims to limit the distribution of spinal block only to the operated side, for all operations involving only one lower limb. Small doses of local anesthetic, pencil-point needles, injection speed, lateral decubitus position and not isobaric anesthetic solution are the main factors involved when attempting a unilateral spinal block. In comparison to conventional technique it requires a bit longer preparation time, but provides less hemodynamic side effects with higher cardiovascular stability, increased autonomy after surgery and better patient acceptance.
Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart * New York.