[Systemic absorption of 2% lidocaine from the lumbar epidural space]. / Absorción sistémica de la lidocaína al 2% desde el espacio epidural lumbar.

The curves of lidocaine (LDC) plasma levels versus time were evaluated in a group of 16 patients receiving single epidural injections of 2% LDC for each metamer to be anesthesized. LDC absorption from epidural space is fairly rapid (tmax = 17 +/- 4 min and t1/2a = 6.2 +/- 1.7 min). This results in very shape peak plasma levels (2.97 +/- 0.87 micrograms/ml with 2% LDC). The remaining pharmacokinetic parameters were: Ke = 0.0057 +/- 0.0022 min-1 and Vd = 1.5 +/- 0.5 l/kg. In all patients adequate levels for operation were obtained.