Can ultrasound replace X-Rays for epidural checks?

NCT ID NCT06556836

Completed Diagnosis Sponsor: Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Medicas y Nutricion Salvador Zubiran Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether ultrasound can accurately locate epidural catheters in 66 adults undergoing open abdominal surgery. Participants had their catheter placement checked with both ultrasound and epidurography (an X-ray method). The goal was to see if ultrasound could serve as a reliable, less invasive alternative for confirming correct placement.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Doppler color and M-Mode ultrasound
What this could lead to: If ultrasound proves accurate, it could replace epidurography as a simpler, less invasive way to confirm epidural catheter placement during surgery.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study with only 66 participants, so results may not apply to all patients or settings. Ultrasound may not be as reliable as the gold standard.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

EPIDURAL ANALGESIA OPEN ABDOMINAL SURGERY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán

Tlalpan, Mexico City, 14080, Mexico

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