Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical progression and regression of etidocaine 1.5% with and without epinephrine, following single shot epidural injections. In addition, venous plasma levels of etidocaine were compared in the two groups. Thirty-five patients participated in the study, and they were randomly assigned to two groups of 17 and 18, respectively. The results indicated that the addition of epinephrine to etidocaine 1.5% not only enhanced the onset, but extended the level of sensory analgesia significantly, when compared to the plain solution. Furthermore, the degree of motor blockade was significantly enhanced in the epinephrine group. Finally, there were no significant differences noted in the venous plasma levels of the two groups. In conclusion, it would appear that the addition of epinephrine to etidocaine 1.5% enhanced the overall quality of sensory and motor block.