[Deep spinal anaesthesia and saddle-block technique in surgery during pregnancy (author's transl)]

The efficacy of peridural, spinal, and saddle-block technique in the operative treatment of the gravid patient is briefly described. Factors influencing height and spread of analgesia are indicated. In our series of 288 patients, where intrathecal techniques have been used, we compare the spread of analgesia in those positioned in the horizontal (following injection), and those propped to an angle of 45 degrees. We discuss the operative possibilities with such techniques. In conclusion we describe the side effects encountered and their treatment.