Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

What causes headaches related to spinal anesthesia?

1. Blood leaking out

2. CSF leaking out

3. Air penetrating the site

4. Fluid pressure increase

The correct answer is: CSF leaking out

Headaches associated with spinal anesthesia are primarily caused by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaking out of the puncture site. When a needle is inserted into the spinal canal during the administration of spinal anesthesia, it can create a small tear or hole in the dura mater, the protective covering of the spinal cord. If CSF leaks out through this opening, it can lead to a reduction in the volume of fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, resulting in a condition known as post-dural puncture headache. These headaches are often characterized by a positional nature, where the pain worsens when the patient is sitting or standing and improves when lying down. This positional aspect is strongly linked to the loss of CSF, which normally helps maintain intracranial pressure. When CSF is depleted, the brain can sag slightly within the cranial cavity, stretching pain-sensitive structures and leading to the characteristic headache. Understanding this mechanism emphasizes the importance of careful technique during the procedure to minimize the risk of CSF leakage, which can greatly impact patient comfort and recovery after anesthesia.