Investigating the Role of Intrathecal Catheterization After Accidental Dural Puncture in Reducing Post-dural Puncture Headache and Epidural Blood Patch Requirements: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background Accidental dural puncture (ADP) during epidural catheter insertion in obstetric patients is a well-known complication that often results in post-dural puncture headache (PDPH). Management strategies remain controversial, and the potential benefit of placing an intrathecal catheter (ITC) following ADP is yet to be conclusively established. Objectives The objective of this study is to evaluate whether the placement of an ITC following recognized ADP in parturients reduces the incidence of PDPH and the need for a therapeutic epidural blood patch (EBP). Methods This retrospective study analyzed 46 cases of recognized ADP in parturients undergoing labor analgesia. Patients were grouped based on subsequent management: those who received an ITC (n = 32) and those who did not (n = 14). The primary outcomes assessed were the incidence of PDPH and the requirement for EBP. Secondary analysis explored associations with demographic factors, including body mass index (BMI). Results PDPH occurred in 66.7% (n = 20) of patients in the ITC group and 71.4% (n = 10) in the non-ITC group (p = 0.433). An EBP was required in 29.0% (n = 9) of ITC cases compared to 35.7% (n = 5) in the non-ITC group (p = 0.594). Although a trend toward reduced EBP requirement was observed in the ITC group, the difference was not statistically significant. A higher BMI appeared to be associated with a reduced risk of PDPH; however, this association did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion ITC placement following ADP in parturients was associated with a trend toward reduced EBP requirement, though the difference was not statistically significant. No reduction in PDPH incidence was observed. These findings, while limited by sample size and study design, contribute region-specific real-world data to an evolving area of obstetric anesthesia. Further prospective, multicenter studies are needed to guide definitive recommendations.