They were randomized into 3 equal groups : the LL group , in which the patient was placed in the full left-lateral position until the start of surgery with the Whitacre needle bevel oriented laterally ; the LS group , in which the patient was placed in the full left-lateral position initially and then shifted to the left-tilt supine position with the needle bevel oriented laterally ; and the CS group , in which the patient was initially placed in the full left-lateral position and then shifted to the left-tilt supine position with the needle oriented in the cephalad direction .