Epidural filling with crystal-colloid solution prevented accidental dural- puncture-induced headache after cesarean section

Abstract Background: Post dural puncture headache (PDPH) is a common anaesthetic complication caused by spinal puncture or accidental dural puncture during intraspinal anesthesia operation. There is no panacea, either preventive or therapeutic for PDPH. Methods: This study retrospectively collected and analyzed data on the clinical features and outcomes of 20 puerperants with accidental dural punctures. Seventeen individuals received crystal-colloid solution fillers and three did not. Results: The average epidural catheter retaining time was 35.97 hours; the average frequency of epidural filling was 2.65 times, with an average volume of 65.88 ml per fill. One patient developed tinnitus and three complained of head swelling during filling. The average bed-stay was 72.65 hours, with intravenous infusion volume of 2308.82 ml per day in the first three postoperative days. Two patients complained of slight dizziness and mitigation, and five felt weak. One individual had intermittent headaches and dizziness till the seventh postoperative day. Conclusions: Epidural injection of crystal-colloid solution combined with hydration is an effective preventive strategy for PDPH after cesarean section based on this observational study.