Incidence of Post Dural Puncture Headache (PDPH) in Comparison with 23, 25 and 27G Needles In Relation to Age

Aim: To asses the incidence of PDPH in different gauges of spinal needle in relation to age. Methods: This Comparative Study was carried out at AFIU (RWP), Railway General Hospital Rawalpindi and Children Complex Multan from August 2007 to August 2008. A total of 1500 patients were studied in 9 different groups (A1, B1, C1, A2, B2, C2, A3, B3, C3) with group A,B and C for 23G, 25G and 27G respectively and 1, 2 and 3 for 26-40yrs, 41-55yrs, and 56-70yrs respectively. A1 included younger age group with 23G spinal needle and C3 included older age group with 27 G spinal needle. ASA II/III grade patients were selected. All groups were preloaded with 10ml/kg body weight ringers lactate. Routine urine examination and blood complete picture were done. 24 hrs strict postoperative bed rest observed. Results: The frequency of PDPH in A1 (6%), B1 (3%), C1 (2%), A2 (3%), B2 (1.33%), C2 (0%), A3 (0%), B3 (0%), C3 (0%). Conclusion: The study clearly shows at incidence is much higher in younger age group even with the finest needle of 27 gauge.