[Sequential anesthesia-analgesia].

Abstract

Combined spinal-epidural anaesthesia (CSEA) is realized by one route immediately before the surgical procedure. It consists of: -a spinal anaesthesia for the operation itself. -followed by the installation of a catheter in the epidural space, so as to ensure postoperative analgesia. CSEA is a simple and attractive technique which requires only a good knowledge of its two components by the anaesthetist and the use of appropriate needles. Main indications are low abdomen surgery and major procedures on the lower limb. Real contra-indications are few. Updated recent needles could certainly extend the field and general use of this technique.