In our institution, there is a 'standard practice' for neuraxial procedures, with a 'standard' needle used for first attempts (Whitacre 25G 90mm for spinal, Tuohy 18G 80mm for epidural). If the operator has not reached the desired space (spinal or epidural) with the needle inserted to 8cm, a longer needle is then considered for further attempts. This exposes the patient to at least one extra neuraxial needle insertion. Studies have shown that increased needle insertions and redirections are associated with increased complications.