The management of accidental dural puncture and postdural puncture headache: a North American survey

Abstract Study Objective To evaluate the management of accidental dural puncture (ADP) and postdural puncture headache (PDPH) among obstetric anesthesiologists practicing in North America. Design Questionnaire survey of individual members of the Society for Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology (SOAP). Setting University hospital. Measurements In June 2008, a 4-part, 83-item electronic survey was distributed to all North American members of SOAP. It contained questions about respondent demographics, epidural catheter and intrathecal catheter management after ADP, PDPH management, epidural blood patch (EBP) management, and patient follow-up. Main Results Of the 843 United States and Canadian members of SOAP who were surveyed, 160 responses were collected. Respondents reported placing an epidural 75% of the time and an intrathecal catheter 25% of the time following ADP. Common prophylactic and conservative treatment strategies included hydration, caffeine, and opioids by mouth; 76% of respondents leave an intrathecal catheter in place for 24 hours to reduce the frequency of headache. Epidural blood patches are placed by 81% of practitioners less than 24 hours after headache onset. Conclusions Protocols for ADP management are rare. There is wide variation in catheter management after dural puncture, measures used to prevent and treat a resultant headache, and EBP management.