Ultrasound Imaging of the Lumbar Spine in the Transverse Plane: The Correlation Between Estimated and Actual Depth to the Epidural Space in Obese Parturients

Abstract

We found a strong correlation between the ultrasound-estimated distance to the epidural space and the actual measured needle distance in obese parturients. We suggest that prepuncture lumbar ultrasound may be a useful guide to facilitate the placement of epidural needles in obese parturients.