In a randomized double-blind study etidocaine 1.5% without a vasoconstrictor (n = 10), with adrenaline 1:200,000 (n = 10) and with ornipressine 1 IU/10 ml (n = 10) were administered epidurally to 30 orthopaedic patients. Sensory blockade was tested with electric pain stimuli; motor blockade was assessed with dynamometry during isometric plantar flexion of the foot and with the Bromage score; the intraoperative analgesia was determined as well. The development of sensory and motor blockade became faster and more intensive by addition of the two vasoconstrictors. The intraoperative analgesia, insufficient without vasoconstrictors, however, not to full satisfaction. Adrenaline improved the effects of etidocaine more than did ornipressine . The sole use of etidocaine without and with vasoconstrictors is not recommended for epidural anaesthesia for surgery of the lower extremities. It is the local anaesthetic of choice for intensifying motor blockade during already achieved analgesia.