In general the appearance of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is the most important sign of adequate dura puncture. We experienced an unusual case of spinal failure due to the blockage of a spinal needle hole by a foreign body. After the needle tip penetrated the dura, the stylet was removed, but we could not see a free flow of CSF. We found that a small rubber fragment of the local anesthetic bottle plug was on the spinal needle tip. The reason for this was the aspiration of the local anesthetic with an 18 gauge introductory needle.