Epidural Blood Patch
Therapeutic procedure involving injection of autologous blood into the epidural space to seal a dural defect and treat post-dural puncture headache.
Full Definition
Epidural blood patch (EBP) is the gold standard treatment for post-dural puncture headache that has failed conservative management. The procedure involves drawing 15-20 mL of the patient's own blood under sterile conditions and injecting it into the epidural space at or near the level of the original dural puncture. The injected blood forms a clot that seals the dural defect, stopping cerebrospinal fluid leakage and relieving the characteristic positional headache. Success rates exceed 90% with proper technique and timing. The procedure is typically performed 24-48 hours after the onset of symptoms to allow for spontaneous resolution, though it can be done earlier in severe cases.
Usage
Usage note: Document volume of blood used and immediate patient response.
In Context
- "Epidural blood patch was performed using 18 mL of autologous blood with immediate symptom relief." — Therapeutic procedure note
- "The patient declined epidural blood patch and opted for continued conservative management of her PDPH." — Patient counseling documentation