5
E N T E R T H E I N T R AT H E C A L S PA C E
Advance the needle until the dura is penetrated.
Remove the needle stylet to observe cerebrospinal fluid
(CSF) backflow and confirm intrathecal location.
Replace needle stylet to prevent CSF leakage.
Caution:
If parathesia occurs, redirect the needle to avoid
neural injury.
If the patient develops neurological signs or
symptoms, discontinue.
If excessive bleeding is encountered, stop and
reevaluate.
I N S E RT T H E I N T R A S P I N A L C AT H E T E R
When the needle position is properly located and
confirmed by fluoroscopy, remove the stylet. Orient the
needle bevel cephalad and thread the distal tip of
catheter through the needle.
When the wide marker band on the catheter is at the
hub of the needle, the catheter tip is at the tip of the
needle. A slight increase in advancement pressure may
be noted.
Advance the catheter with the guidewire to the desired
location in the intrathecal space.
Markers are provided on the SURESTREAM catheter in
centimeter increments.
Caution:
Pulling back on the guide wire while the catheter
and guide wire are still inserted in the Touhy
needle may damage the catheter.
MEDSTREAM
™
PROGRAMMABLE INFUSION SYSTEM Surgical Technique Guide
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