Changes in Sensory Block Level During a Programmed Intermittent Epidural Bolus Regimen for Labor Analgesia: an Observational Cohort Study
Changes in Sensory Block Level During a Programmed Intermittent Epidural Bolus Regimen for Labor Analgesia: an Observational Cohort Study
Epidural analgesia is widely used for managing pain during labor. The programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB) technique has been shown to produce less consumption of local anesthetics, better sensory block, less motor block, and increased maternal satisfaction than other epidural analgesia techniques. Despite all benefits from PIEB, such practice has been associated with high sensory block levels. Therefore, assessment of the sensory block level is an essential component of clinical safety. The lack of a standardized technique and timing to assess the sensory block level can lead to inappropriate management. The purpose of this study is to investigate the changes in block level over time, during cycles of a PIEB regimen. The investigators hypothesize that these levels will be highest soon after the PIEB bolus and lowest preceding the subsequent PIEB bolus. The investigators also want to investigate a possible correlation between these changes in sensory block levels and motor block, pain scores, and rescue bolus of local anesthetics.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria: