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Spinal anaesthetic

What is a spinal anaesthetic?

A spinal anaesthetic involves injecting drugs into an area called the subarachnoid space near the spinal cord. The drugs numb your nerves to give pain relief in certain areas of your body. Spinal anaesthetic can be used either on their own while you are awake, or in combination with sedation or general anaesthesia. They can also be used after your operation to give effective pain relief. Spinal anaesthetic

What does the procedure involve?

Your anaesthetist will insert the needle, inject drugs through it and then remove the needle (see figure 1). It should not be painful, although it can be uncomfortable. A spinal anaesthetic usually lasts between one to three hours. The anaesthetist will put enough drugs through the needle to make sure that it lasts longer than the expected length of the operation.

spinal anaesthetic 

What complications can happen?

  • Failure of the spinal
  • Low blood pressure
  • Headache
  • Itching
  • Bladder-emptying problems
  • Backache
  • Loss or change of hearing
  • Nerve damage

Spinal anaesthetic summary

A spinal can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after your operation.

Pricing

Spine injection for pain (1-2) (local anaesthetic)

Patient pathway Initial consultation Diagnostic investigations Main treatment Post discharge care Total
Hospital fees N/A Included £1,843 Included £1,843
Consultants fees £200 N/A Included Included £200
Total £2,043
Initial consultation
Hospital fees N/A
Consultants fees £200
Diagnostic investigations
Hospital fees Included
Consultants fees N/A
Main treatment
Hospital fees £1,843
Consultants fees Included
Post discharge care
Hospital fees Included
Consultants fees Included
Total £2,043

Terms & Conditions

This is a guide price for your consultation and treatment package. Your consultant will be able to discuss treatment options and costs with you (subject to your pre-assessment tests) so you are able to make an informed decision that’s right for you. The fixed cost will be confirmed in writing at time of booking your treatment. Prices can be subject to change. For more information please refer to our terms and conditions (large print version).

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Want to look at other treatments? or find it on the A-Z list.