Oh mama, I really feel for you because having that uncertainty hanging over you at 33 weeks must be so stressful, especially as a FTM when everything is already so new and unknown. My cousin actually had a back injury before her delivery and her anaesthetist was very honest with her too, saying the epidural might not spread evenly, and in the end it only worked partially on one side for her. She managed to get through it with some gas and air topping up the rest, and she said it was tough but doable, though she wished she had mentally prepared herself more for that possibility. I think the most important thing is to have a really open conversation with your gynae and also request to speak with the anaesthetist before your delivery date, so you can go through your surgical history in detail and set realistic expectations together as a team. Going in with a flexible birth plan, where you are open to the epidural working fully, partially, or not at all, might help you feel more in control rather than caught off guard on the day itself. You are doing so well by thinking ahead and asking questions, just keep that communication open with your medical team and you will be in good hands.