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Paediatric neuraxial anatomy — FRCA Primary MCQ

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HardAnatomyPaediatric neuraxial anatomyFRCA Primary

A 9-month-old infant requires caudal analgesia. Compared with adults, which anatomical feature is most relevant to neuraxial safety in this age group?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Dural sac ends at S2

In infants, the spinal cord and dural sac extend more caudally than in adults, which is relevant to neuraxial needle placement. Adult levels are often quoted as cord ending near L1 and dural sac near S2, but paediatric anatomy differs. The sacral hiatus is usually accessible for caudal techniques. The pearl is that age-related anatomy changes must be considered rather than applying adult landmarks uncritically.

Reference: RCoA Primary FRCA Syllabus 2026; Anatomy for Anaesthetists