Continuous spinal anaesthesia in acute respiratory failure

A patient with an obstructed femoral hernia and intercurrent respiratory failure was successfully anaesthetised with a continuous spinal technique. The technique provided excellent intra-operative anaesthesia and early postoperative analgesia, whilst avoiding further respiratory compromise. Disconnection of the catheter hub from the catheter prevented prolonged provision of postoperative analgesia by this route. Fixing of both the catheter and the hub to the patient are advocated to avoid this problem.