The Frequency of Post Dural Puncture Headache: Comparison of 25G Quincke Spinal Needle with 22G Whitacre

Background: Spinal anaesthesia is safe and effective alternative to general anaesthesia. Aim: To compare 25G Quincke spinal needle with 22G Whitacre needle for the frequency of post dural puncture headache. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial. Methods: 200 patients undergoing elective cesarean section requiring spinal anesthesia were included in this study. Divided intogroup A (Quincke) and group B (Whitacre) by using lottery method. Each group comprised of 100 patients. Bio data of all patients were noted and informed consent was taken. In operation theater 0.9% Saline (10 ml/Kg) given before spinal anaesthesia with 18G cannula. Subarachnoid injection was given at L-3 - L-4 level with hyperbaric bupivacaine (0.75%) in sitting position and dose was 1.5 ml. Results: Mean age in both groups was 29.34 (SD 5.20) and distribution of post dural puncture headache in group A was 23% and in group B it was 8%. Conclusions: fewer incidences of headache with Whitacre needle as compare to Quincke needle.