A randomized double-blind comparison of the double-space technique versus the single-space technique in combined spinal-epidural anesthesia for cesarean section

Table 4 Variables associated with postoperative recovery

	Double Group (n = 20)	Single Group (n = 20)	P value
Bromage scale 1 h (0–3)	1 [0–2]	1 [0–3]	0.774
Bromage scale 6 h (0–3)	0 [0–1]	0 [0–2]	0.762
Sensory level 1 h	T8 [T4-T11]	T10 [T4-T11]	0.029^*
Sensory level 6 h	T12 [T6-L1]	L1 [T8-L5]	0.016^*
Pain 1 h NRS (0–10)	0 [0–2]	0 [0–4]	0.281
Pain 6 h NRS (0–10)	1 [0–3]	0.5 [0–3]	0.300
Pain 12 h NRS (0–10)	1 [0–7]	1 [0–8]	0.801
Pain 24 h NRS (0–10)	1.5 [0–4]	1 [0–7]	0.694
Pain 48 h NRS (0–10)	1 [0–3]	1 [0–7]	0.672
Time required to start ambulation (h)	21.8 ± 4.2	24.1 ± 7.5	0.241
Time required to start urination after foley catheter removal (h)	25.1 ± 4.1	27.4 ± 7.8	0.250
Time required to observe the first flatus (h)	29.8 ± 10.8	32.6 ± 11.3	0.427

Data are presented as median values [range] or means ± SD. NRS; Numeric rating scale, Bromage scale (0 = no block, 1 = weak or absent hip flexion, able to move knees and ankles, 2 = unable to move hips or knees, able to move ankles, 3 = unable to move any joint)
There were no differences between the two groups in postoperative pain score or motor block. The sensory level was significantly higher in the double group than in the single group. ^*: P < 0.05, compared with the single group

ISSN: 1471-2253