Ultrasonographic control of the puncture level for lumbar neuraxial block in obstetric anaesthesia

The observed differences between clinical and ultrasonic identification of spinal puncture level highlight the potential for serious complications associated with the performance of neuraxial blocks above the spinous process of L3 in the parturient. With the increase in popularity of techniques involving puncture of the dura mater for labour anaesthesia, we feel that awareness of this risk is important.