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.
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: J Jokinen; V Adametz; M Kredel; R M Muellenbach; A Hönig; A Wöckel; J Dietl; N Roewer; P Kranke Journal: Anaesthesist Date: 2014-12-25 Impact factor: 1.041