Low-dose spinal anaesthesia for Caesarean section to prevent spinal-induced hypotension.

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW:

The present review evaluates the evidence available in the literature to see whether low-dose spinal anaesthesia for Caesarean section is effective in preventing maternal hypotension while at the same time guaranteeing effective anaesthetic conditions.

MAIN FINDINGS:

From prospective trials, it is clear that lowering the spinal dose improves maternal haemodynamic stability. Doses of intrathecal bupivacaine between 5 and 7 mg are sufficient to provide effective anaesthesia. Complete motor block is, however, seldom achieved and adequate anaesthesia is limited in time.

SUMMARY:

Low-dose spinal anaesthesia as part of a combined spinal-epidural technique is a valuable method in improving maternal and fetal outcome during anaesthesia for operative delivery.

• Authors: Eva Roofthooft, Marc Van de Velde
• Journal: Current opinion in anaesthesiology (Curr Opin Anaesthesiol) Vol. 21 Issue 3 Pg. 259-62 (Jun 2008) ISSN: 1473-6500 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 18458538 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Anesthetics, Local
• Bupivacaine

Topics

• Anesthesia, Obstetrical (adverse effects, methods)
• Anesthesia, Spinal (adverse effects, methods)
• Anesthetics, Local (administration & dosage)
• Bupivacaine (administration & dosage)
• Cesarean Section
• Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
• Evidence-Based Medicine
• Female
• Humans
• Hypotension (chemically induced, prevention & control)
• Motor Activity (drug effects)
• Pregnancy
• Treatment Outcome