„Over the needle“ technique in continuous subarachnoideal anesthesia decreases the probability of post dural puncture headache as well as risks ensuing from the use of subarachnoideal microcatheters. Spinocath advanced in lumbar region from paraspinous approach was used for subarach- noideal anesthesia and postoperative analgesia in 16 patients undergoing major orthopedic procedures in hip region. No technical complications occurred. 5 patients reported transient root irritation during insertion of the catheter. The catheter was left in place for 72 hours postoperatively to allow continuous administration of 0,25% bupivacaine. With this pain control regimen, patients were able to start rehabilitation procedures in standing position from the 2 nd postoperative day. Catheters were withdrawn on the 3 rd postoperative day. We did not observe post dural puncture headache in any of our patients.

        Key words: continuous subarachnoideal anesthesia – microcatheters – post dural puncture headache – cauda equina syndrome