One hundred and forty-four patients receiving subarachnoid anaesthesia for caesarean section were prospectively analysed for quality of anaesthesia and the occurrence of post dural puncture headache (PDPH). Anaesthesia was administered via 24 gauge Sprotte (n = 104) and 26 gauge Quincke (n = 40) needles using hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5% with morphine 0.2 mg. Anaesthesia was successful in 103 patients with the Sprotte needle and 38 patients with the Quincke needle, and the operating conditions were considered to be excellent. Of the 104 patients in the Sprotte needle group there were ten with PDPH (9.6%), two of which were considered severe. Of the 40 patients in the Quincke needle group there were eight with PDPH (20%), three of which were considered severe. Despite the lower incidence of headache in the Sprotte needle group, this was not statistically significant (P > 0.05), due to the difference in population size. We conclude that the 24 gauge Sprotte needle is associated with a comparatively low but clinically relevant incidence of headache in the obstetric population.

Adult↗

PubMed1991

An epidemiological survey of dog bites presenting to the emergency department of a children's hospital.

German shepherds are the most popular registered breed of dog in South Australia, but are also the most hazardous to children, biting more often and more severely. A study of the victims of dog bites presenting to the Emergency Department of the Adelaide Children's Hospital over an 18 month period revealed that, although many breeds were involved, only German shepherds were implicated more frequently than their prevalence in the community. Attacks occurred most often in a domestic setting involving a friendly dog that was known to the victim. Boys were more often bitten than girls and children aged 1-6 years most commonly involved. Injuries to the face and scalp were frequent and the usual ones to require admission for suture under general anaesthetic. Some scarring was a common sequel and resulting fear of dogs remained with some children. Most attacks were reported to be unprovoked and a previous biting history on the part of the dog was uncommon. Parents who are contemplating obtaining a dog for a family pet should be made aware of these facts and advised regarding the biting hazards and possible prevention. The German shepherd situation especially should be brought to their attention.

Animals↗

PubMed1978