Question:
Does the needle for an epidural hurt?

I am scheduled for surgery on 02/09/2001. Ive had PCA morpine in the past, but am considering a epidural. question: does it hurt when the needle is put into you? (or taken out) my surgeon says if I have a epidural I must have a cathiter (sp), have never had one before.so I guess this part is for other guys who have had one.. is it painfull when they take it out? thanks in advance for any help!!! Daniel    — dhuberty (posted on January 15, 2001)

January 15, 2001
I had Open RNY on November 27, 2000. I had been told that a lot of anesthesiologists won't do an epidural if you weigh over 300lbs. My pre-op weigt was 365 but I really wanted the epidural b/c I wanted to be able to walk as soon as possible after surgery. In the pre-op room, I was given a sedative before they attempted the epidural. They had me sit on the side of the bed, fold my arms across my chest and lean forward. They tried and tried to get it in. It was a little painful, not bad, but mostly what I felt was pressurein my back. I could tell the Dr. wasn't having much luck and so after about 2 minutes of im trying I asked him to stop and he did. So I was on the Morhpine pump. It handled my pain just fine. From what I heard about people that have had the epidural is that it is great and most people don't have any problems w/ it. Just remember that you have choices and and a say-so in your care in the hospital. You'l do just fine, I'm sure!
   — Julie M.

January 25, 2001
Yo Daniel! I had a catheter after a nasty motorcycle wreck. Removing it hurts less than pulling off a bandaid. Seeing it pulled out is ever so slightly slightly weird. Not having to get up to go to the bathroom is absolutely cool.
   — Charly G.

April 21, 2001
I have had three epidurals for surgery and none of them have hurt. I don't know why because it seems like it should, but it doesn't. The doctor pushes on the area around where he is placing the epidural and all you feel is them pushing on your back. Amazingly enough, the catheter you won't even feel at all. They will probably put it in while you are asleep, but it does not hurt. When they take it out, it just sort of plops out painlessly. If you have ever had an IV, both of these things are less painful than that.
   — [Anonymous]