Draw and label a cross section of the lumbar epidural space (50% of marks). Describe
the pharmacology of bupivacaine (50% of marks).
It was expected answers would include a diagram of a cross section and label the lumbar
epidural space and the key landmarks namely dura, subarachnoid space, epidural space. Most
candidates were able to give a schematic representation even if not being able to draw. Some
candidates confused the subdural space with the epidural space. Pharmacology of bupivacaine
needed to cover both pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Several candidates addressed
only one of these components and so missed the opportunity to score marks.