Comparing ultrasound-assisted spinal anesthesia to conventional methods in obese patients

Paramedian Approach for Spinal Anesthesia Using Ultrasound Assistance Versus Conventional Palpation in Morbidly Obese Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Kafrelsheikh University · NCT05240846

This study tests whether using ultrasound to help with spinal anesthesia can work better than traditional methods for obese patients having elective surgeries.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment64 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorKafrelsheikh University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Kafr Ash Shaykh)
Trial IDNCT05240846 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasound-assisted spinal anesthesia compared to conventional palpation techniques in morbidly obese patients undergoing elective surgeries. Given the challenges of administering spinal anesthesia in this population, the study will utilize a paramedian approach to potentially enhance success rates and reduce complications. By employing ultrasound guidance, the researchers hope to provide better anatomical visualization, thereby improving the overall patient experience and outcomes. The study will involve two groups: one receiving conventional palpation and the other receiving ultrasound assistance.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are morbidly obese patients (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2) aged 18 years and older who are scheduled for elective surgeries.

Not a fit: Patients who have contraindications to spinal anesthesia or a history of spinal deformity or surgery may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the success rate of spinal anesthesia in morbidly obese patients, leading to fewer complications and enhanced patient satisfaction.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that ultrasound assistance can improve the success rates of spinal anesthesia, suggesting that this approach may be promising.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥ 18 years
* Both sexes
* Body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg/m2
* Patients undergoing elective surgeries

Exclusion Criteria:

* Rejection of spinal anesthesia
* History of spinal deformity or spinal surgery
* Contraindications to spinal anesthesia (infection of the puncture site, coagulation dysfunction, allergy to local anesthesia, insufficient blood volume or abnormal spinal anatomy).

Where this trial is running

Kafr Ash Shaykh

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Spinal AnesthesiaUltrasound AssistanceObesity, Morbid
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.