Epidural space contents — FRCA Primary MCQ

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HardAnatomyEpidural space contentsFRCA Primary

During epidural placement in a pregnant patient, venous puncture occurs and the catheter aspirates blood. Which structure in the epidural space explains this?

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Correct answer: A — Internal vertebral venous plexus

The epidural space contains fat, lymphatics and the internal vertebral venous plexus, which becomes engorged in pregnancy and increases vascular puncture risk. The anterior spinal artery is intradural on the cord surface. The thoracic duct and azygos vein are not lumbar epidural space structures. Pregnancy also reduces epidural space volume, affecting spread of local anaesthetic.

Reference: RCoA Primary FRCA Syllabus; neuraxial anatomy texts