• N Eustace, A Hennessy, and J Gardiner.
• Dept of Anaesthesia, Rotunda Hospital, Dublin 1, Ireland.
• Ir Med J. 2004 Nov 1;97(10):298-300.

AbstractEpidural blood patch is the definitive treatment for post dural puncture headaches (PDH), providing acceptable short-term relief. Disappointingly however debate exists as to their long-term success. To investigate their efficacy in our practice, a retrospective audit of all epidural blood patches performed over a four year period was performed. Patients were subsequently followed up using a postal questionnaire and persistent symptom relief and patient satisfaction was measured. During the study period 87 patients required an epidural blood patch, 11 required repeat patches. 71.26% of patients had complete symptom resolution on discharge. The response rate to follow up survey was 73.26% with the majority, 57.44%, replying that their symptoms returned following their discharge home. Only 25.53% said they would have an epidural or spinal anaesthetic for future deliveries. Epidural blood patches provide excellent short-term relief but long-term results are disappointing. Patients receiving epidural blood patches need improved long-term follow up.

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