Research for the ideal technique of maintaining epidural analgesia after the initial-level block is ongoing. Continuous infusion techniques, use of more dilute solutions , PCEA , and different techniques of PCEA like background dosing, none, fixed infusion as background, variable infusion (computer-integrated), programmed intermittent boluses (PIEBs) and automated mandatory boluses, have been used. Automated systems designed to administer a small bolus dose of anaesthetic at programmable intervals may combine the advantages of both manual bolus and continuous epidural infusion (CEI) systems.