The influence of epidural catheter on the incidence of intravascular injection during caudal block

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of epidural catheters on the incidence of intravascular injection and to identify possible predictors of intravascular injection in patients undergoing a caudal block using fluoroscopy. Methods: A total of 154 patients scheduled to receive a caudal block were randomized into group N (those without epidural catheter) or group C (those with epidural catheter). Demographic and clinical data were recorded and analyzed. Results: The incidence of intravascular injection was 15.6% in group N, 6.5% in group C, and 11.0% overall, without statistical differences between the two groups (P = 0.105). Univariate analysis revealed that blood at hub (P = 0.047) and positive aspiration test (P = 0.045) were more frequently observed in group N than in group C. Quality of analgesia was significantly higher in group C than in group N (P = 0.029). Multivariate analysis identified older age (P = 0.024), blood at hub (P = 0.003), and positive aspiration test (P = 0.001) as predictors of intravascular injection. Conclusions: In this study, while the incidence of intravascular injection during caudal blocks was less frequent with epidural catheter use, it was not statistically significant. However, a caudal block using an epidural catheter provided a lower incidence of blood at hub, fewer positive aspiration tests, and superiority in pain improvement.