Comparing two methods for placing a chest-area epidural
This study compares two ways of placing a thoracic epidural (a thin tube that delivers pain medicine near your chest) during surgery: one uses a pressure wave in the needle, and the other uses live X-ray images. It will help see which method is more accurate and easier.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You are 18 years old or older.
- Your surgery is planned (not an emergency) and includes a thoracic epidural for pain relief.
- You are having surgery at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.
- You speak English.
- You are able to give your own consent for the study.
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
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