Obstetric Placement Study Using EST

Launched by STANFORD UNIVERSITY · Sep 26, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a technique called combined spinal-epidural (CSE) to help manage pain during labor. CSE is a method used to provide quick pain relief, but it doesn’t last for long. To make the relief last longer, doctors usually place a thin tube called an epidural catheter. This study is looking at a special test, known as the epidural stimulation test (EST), to confirm that the catheter is placed correctly. The test was developed by the lead researcher about 20 years ago.

To participate in this trial, women aged 18 and older who are pregnant and planning to have an epidural for pain relief during labor may be eligible. Important factors include being in good health (levels I or II according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists) and being at full-term in their pregnancy. However, women with certain health conditions, allergies to specific pain medications, or issues with their spine are not eligible. Participants can expect to receive the CSE technique with the added benefit of the EST to ensure the catheter is placed properly, which may help improve their pain management during labor.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Females, 18 years and older
• • American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I or II
• • Full-term pregnancy with request for epidural early in labour (i.e. Regular labor or C-Section)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Contraindication to regional anesthesia
• • Allergy or hypersensitivity to lidocaine, bupivacaine, or fentanyl
• • Use of sedatives or opioids
• • Abnormal vertebrae anatomy
• • Neurological disorder with lumbar involvement
• • Implanted electronic devices