Use of remifentanil in a patient with Eisenmenger syndrome requiring urgent cesarean section.

We describe a case of 41-yr.-old multigravida at 35 weeks gestation, with a diagnosis of Eisenmenger syndrome, requiring urgent Cesarean section. The parturient had signs and symptoms of respiratory distress due to high pulmonary artery pressure, and the pregnancy was complicated by preeclampsia. A general anesthetic consisting of ketamine and etomidate and an intravenous infusion of remifentanil were used to provide stable anesthesia and analgesia for a successful delivery. The baby was delivered with high Apgar scores. The potential benefits and safety of the use of remifentanil in parturients with high pulmonary artery pressures are discussed.