University Clinical Center Tuzla performs first spinal surgery using epidural anesthesia

The University Clinical Center (UKC) Tuzla has successfully performed a spinal surgery using epidural anesthesia for the first time at the institution. This approach was chosen for a patient with multiple comorbidities to avoid the risks associated with general anesthesia, such as intubation and mechanical ventilation.

Dr. Fatima Iljazagić Halilović, a specialist in anesthesiology and reanimatology, noted that while spinal surgeries are typically performed under general anesthesia, this regional method allowed the patient to remain awake, conscious, and oriented. The use of an epidural catheter also enabled the administration of local anesthetics, providing pain relief for up to 24 hours and avoiding the need for opioids.

Medical staff indicated that regional anesthesia may offer a lower risk of certain complications and a faster postoperative recovery compared to general anesthesia. While regional methods are already used daily in gynecology, abdominal surgery, and urology at UKC Tuzla, this procedure marks a potential expansion of the practice into spinal surgery. Additionally, the center's Pain Therapy Clinic, active since March, continues to provide individualized treatment plans for chronic pain patients.