Saddle Block and Caudal Anesthesia

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 21, 2024.

What is saddle block or caudal anesthesia?

Saddle block or caudal anesthesia is used to numb your buttocks, inner thighs, hips, and the area between your legs. It can be used for surgeries to treat hemorrhoids. It can also be used to repair an episiotomy after childbirth.

What will happen during saddle block or caudal anesthesia?

Your caregiver will give you an injection to numb the skin over your tailbone. He will insert a needle between the bones in your lower spine and inject anesthesia medicine. Stay as still as possible. Tell your caregiver if you feel a tingling shock or pain in your leg. You will be awake during surgery but may be given medicine in your IV to make you sleepy. Your buttocks, inner thighs, hips, and the area between your legs will be numb. You may not be able to move your legs for 1 to 2 hours, or until the medicine wears off.

What will happen after saddle block or caudal anesthesia?

You will be taken to a room where you can rest until the numbness goes away. Depending on your surgery or procedure, you will be taken to your hospital room or sent home. Arrange to have someone drive you home from the hospital. Do not drive yourself home. If you were given medicine to make you sleepy, have someone stay with you for 24 hours after your procedure.

What do I need to know about saddle block or caudal anesthesia?

Tell your caregiver if you or anyone in your family has ever had a problem with anesthesia, such as a high fever. Anesthesia may make it difficult to think. Do not make important decisions for 24 hours after you receive anesthesia.

What are the risks of saddle block or caudal anesthesia?

You may have a severe reaction to the medicine. The medicine may cause nausea after your surgery. It may also cause a seizure or heart attack. Saddle block or caudal anesthesia may cause nerve damage. This may lead to long-lasting numbness or pain.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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