Doctor inserts catheter for epidural anesthetic

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Epidural anesthesia. Doctor inserting a catheter through a hollow needle for the administration of an epidural anesthetic. The anesthetic is injected into the epidural space, which is found around the membranes surrounding the spinal cord. This numbs the chest and the lower half of the body. The catheter allows further doses of painkiller to be given. Epidural anesthesia is used to relieve pain during and after surgery and in people suffering from cancer. It is also widely given to relieve the pain of childbirth. Rubber gloves help to maintain a sterile environment.

David Nunuk / Science Source

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