Unusual spinal needle defect: projecting stylet

摘要

The modern version of a Quincke-type spinal needle was developed in 1914 after Bainbridge had described his spinal needle with a cutting bevel and matching beveled stylet in 1900. Reports of spinal needle defects in the literature seem to be rare. Previous authors have described an unusual spinal needle mid-shaft micro-tear with resultant efflux of local anesthetic.2 Another group reported a 180° malrotation of the stylet bevel so that it faced the needle and resulted in a forked tip, which prevented puncture of the skin.3 We report an unusual spinal needle defect that pertains to an abnormal 6 mm projection of the stylet beyond the bevel in a disposable spinal needle.