The use of extradural catheters in patients with systemic or localized infection is controversial. The catheter may act as a focus for secondary infection resulting in an extradural abscess. in this study we have examined the use of extradural catheters for anaesthesia over the past 7 yr in patients with localized infections. The records of 69 patients were reviewed and patients interviewed (letter/phone). These patients had a total of 120 extradural catheters placed and received, on average, four anaesthetics, with the extradural catheter remaining in place for a mean of 9 days. On 12 occasions (eight patients) the catheter was removed because of signs or symptoms of local infection. Specific antibiotic therapy was not initiated, but ongoing therapy was continued. A single case of spondylitis was the only serious complication found but was not related to the extradural technique. We conclude that extradural anaesthesia for patients who require repeated surgical treatments for abscesses or infected wound is a relatively safe procedure.