Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 6, 2026
11:15
A Modified Method for Intrathecal Catheterization in Rats
Published on: February 14, 2025
Impact of Intradermal Fixation on Epidural Catheter Durability and Dislodgement Rates
Myroslav Stupnytskyi1, Andrii Rodzonyak2, Victoria Lys3
1Department of Neuroanesthesiology and Critical Care in the Neurosurgery and Neurology Clinic, Military Medical Clinical Centre of the Western Region, Lviv 79010, Ukraine.
Military Medicine
|July 4, 2026
Summary
A new epidural catheter tunnelling technique using an intravenous cannula significantly reduces dislocation risks in trauma patients. This method improves catheter stability and duration, proving safe and effective, especially in military settings.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Trauma Surgery
- Medical Device Innovation
Background:
- Epidural catheter tunnelling is underutilized despite benefits in reducing bacterial migration and mechanical instability.
- A standardized optimal method for epidural catheter tunnelling is currently undefined.
- This study addresses the need for improved epidural catheter fixation techniques in trauma patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and evaluate a novel, resource-efficient epidural catheter tunnelling method using an intravenous cannula.
- To assess the incidence of catheter dislodgement with the new technique compared to traditional methods.
- To determine the efficacy of the novel technique in improving catheter stability and duration in combat casualties.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective evaluation of 71 combat casualties requiring epidural analgesia for complex lower limb injuries.
- Comparison of two cohorts: control (epidural needle tunnelling) and intervention (novel double-tunnelling with an 18-gauge peripheral intravenous cannula).
- Primary endpoint: catheter dislodgement (complete removal, migration, or functional failure).
Main Results:
- The novel dermal plane tunnelling technique showed a 3.2-times lower risk of catheter dislocation compared to the control group.
- Mean functional catheter duration significantly extended in the intervention group (7.6 days vs. 4.2 days).
- Reduced re-catheterisation frequency and a trend toward single catheter use per patient were observed in the intervention group. No infections occurred.
Conclusions:
- The proposed dermal plane tunnelling method using a peripheral IV cannula is safe, reliable, and improves epidural catheter fixation.
- This technique offers superior durability for extended epidural analgesia, reducing dislocation risks and mechanical complications in active trauma patients.
- The method's ease of use makes it highly suitable for resource-constrained environments, such as military medical care.
