The medication is injected, the needle is removed, and the patient is allowed to lie back down. Although this may sound like a painful procedure, most patients feel only the small sting from the local anesthetic. You may or may not feel pressure in your lower back as the needle is inserted. With the sedation that is given, many patients do not even remember the injection. Once we are sure that the nerves are blocked and the patient is not feeling any pain, the surgery is started.
More sedation is given, as needed, throughout the procedure.
If at any time during the procedure you feel uncomfortable, simply tell your anesthesia provider so he may adjust your medication. After the surgery, you will be taken to the Recovery Room for about one hour. Epidural anesthesia involves inserting a tiny plastic tube into the epidural space. This medicine blocks the messages of sensation that tell the brain what your body is feeling. The catheter may be placed higher in the back for procedures of the chest or upper abdomen.