HomeAnswersAnesthesiologyovarian cystsCan I get a spinal block for laparotomy instead of general anesthesia?

Can I get a spinal block for laparotomy instead of general anesthesia?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At March 25, 2018
Reviewed AtNovember 10, 2022

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been diagnosed with a 13 cm complex cyst in left ovary and have a laparotomy (small 3 to 4 inches vertical incision under my belly button to get rid of ovarian cyst) coming up and I would feel so much better if I could just get a spinal block instead of general anesthesia. I have heard of multiple women getting these with similar surgeries and I want to know why my surgeon is telling me that spinal block is not possible. I have a major anxiety of general anesthesia and I know my recovery would be better with a spinal. The tests performed are an ultrasound and CT scan.

Please answer.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Spinal anesthesia is good for surgeries below umbilicus eg., pelvic surgeries, and ovarian cyst as in your case. But the size of your cyst is large, more than 10 cm and it is a complex cyst (not simple) which would mean surgeon may have to see other intrabdominal structures also and may take more time to complete surgery, also you may feel uncomfortable if he has to extend incision above the umbilicus. So he has advised you for general anesthesia which is the most reliable option in your case.

I hope this helps.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Jadhav Yatish Anant
Dr. Jadhav Yatish Anant

Anesthesiology

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