Puncture of the dura

Question 1

Symptoms of Puncture of the Dura

Answer 1

• 0.5-2.5 % of epidurals
• 70-80% will have postdural headache, front occipital, radiates to the neck
• Worse on standing, develops 24-48 hrs after the puncture

Question 2

Tx of Puncture of the Dura

Answer 2

• Hydration
• Analgesia
• Lasts 7-10 days but up to 6/52
• Blood patch has 60-90% cure rate