Automated UltraSound Software for Identification of Lumbar Vertebral Levels

Automated UltraSound Software for Identification of Lumbar Vertebral Levels in Obstetric Patients

A novel automated ultrasound software system has been developed which identifies for the practitioner the intervertebral spaces in the lumbar area. This study aims to investigate whether this new technology has a greater accuracy of identifying intervertebral spaces that manual palpation.

The use of ultrasound is one of the most accurate ways to identify the correct vertebral level for needle insertion in spinal/epidural anesthetics, however this is not commonly used. A novel automated ultrasound software system has been developed by the UBC Department of Engineering which identifies for the practitioner the intervertebral spaces in the lumbar area. This study aim to investigate whether this new technology has a greater accuracy of identifying intervertebral spaces that manual palpation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ASA I or II
• ≥ 19 years old
• Term pregnancy (≥ 37 weeks gestation age)
• Scheduled for elective Cesarean section
• Ability to read English in order to understand the consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patient refusal to participate
• BMI ≥ 40
• Scoliosis
• Previous lower back surgery or known spinal abnormalities
• Inability to palpate bony landmarks in lumbar region
• Active labour (cervical dilatation >5cm)
• Allergy to epidural tape, surgical paper tape, or felt pen