Cauda Equina Syndrome and Spinal and Epidural Anesthesia. The Influence of Local Anesthetic, Needle Type and Position of Puncture

Background and Objectives: Severe complications such as Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) lead to temporary or permanent disability have been ascribed to central neuraxial blocks. Some case reports, and very few retrospective studies, have focused their attention on the fact that central nerve blocks can cause, albeit rarely, permanent damage to the spinal cord or nerve roots, or both. This study is the experience of 48 years with spinal anesthesia and several publications and no definite neurological complications. This study is not a review of the subject. The primary objective of this study was to analyze the characteristics in relation to needles, puncture position, types of anesthetics, and baricity of local anesthetics.