Analgesia, epidural and episiotomy ???

I am a newly qualified midwife and have been trying to find an answer to the following question with no luck; If a woman has an epidural in labour is anaesthetic infiltration of the perineum still necessary when performing an episiotomy? I have been told by a couple midwives it isn't necessary to infiltrate if the woman has an epidural however I dont understand why given the epidural block doesnt extend to the perineum. Does anyone know the best practice according to research or evidence?

[Mumita]

You should consult with the "ask a Dr" forum, here mostly everyone is just pregnant or post pregnant.
I hope that you find the answers that you are looking for.

[peekawho]

The best practice is to test the area of the perineum by pinching with a pair of tissue forceps, prior to episiotomy in women who have epidurals.  

Most women who have a working epidural will not need extra local anesthetic, but some do.  So its standard practice to gently "pinch" the area to see if she can feel painful sensations prior to doing an episiotomy.