Post-spinal Hypotension Research Articles

Comparison of phenylephrine and norepinephrine for treatment of spinal hypotension during elective cesarean delivery- A randomised, double-blind study.

Hypotension following subarachnoid block for cesarean delivery (CD) is common. We compared the effect of bolus administration of norepinephrine and phenylephrine on umbilical artery pH (primary objective) and their efficacy for the treatment of maternal hypotension (secondary objective) in term parturients undergoing elective CD under spinal anesthesia. In a randomized, double-blinded study, parturients received 1 mL boluses of either phenylephrine 100 μg/mL (group phenylephrine; n = 45) or norepinephrine 7.5 μg/mL (group norepinephrine; n = 45) whenever maternal systolic blood pressure decreased to ≤80% of baseline. Maternal hemodynamic changes, vasopressor, and atropine requirement and neonatal outcome (umbilical cord blood gas analysis, Apgar scores, neonatal neurobehavioral response) were assessed. The Apgar scores and umbilical cord blood gas analysis were comparable between groups. The neurobehavioral scale score was significantly higher in group NE compared with that in group PE at 24 h and 48 h; P = 0.007 and 0.002, respectively. The number of vasopressor doses and time to the first vasopressor requirement for maintaining systolic pressure >80% of baseline was comparable in both groups. Incidence of bradycardia (P = 0.009), reactive hypertension (P = 0.003), and dose requirement of atropine (P = 0.005) was higher in group PE compared with group NE. In term normotensive parturients who received bolus norepinephrine 7.5 μg or phenylephrine 100 μg for the treatment of post-spinal hypotension during CD, neonatal umbilical cord blood gas analysis and Apgar scores were comparable. Norepinephrine use was associated with a lower incidence of maternal bradycardia and reactive hypertension compared with phenylephrine.

Norepinephrine versus phenylephrine infusion for preventing postspinal hypotension during cesarean section for twin pregnancy: a double-blinded randomized controlled clinical trial

BackgroundCompared with singleton pregnancy, twin gestation is featured by a greater increase in cardiac output. Therefore, norepinephrine might be more suitable than phenylephrine for maintaining blood pressure during cesarean section for twins, as phenylephrine causes reflex bradycardia and a resultant decrease in cardiac output. This study was to determine whether norepinephrine was superior to phenylephrine in maintaining maternal hemodynamics during cesarean section for twins.MethodsInformed consent was obtained from all the patients before enrollment. In this double-blinded, randomized clinical trial, 100 parturients with twin gestation undergoing cesarean section with spinal anesthesia were randomized to receive prophylactic norepinephrine (3.2 μg/min) or phenylephrine infusion (40 μg/min). The primary outcome was the change of heart rate and blood pressure during the study period. The secondary outcomes were to compare maternal complications, neonatal outcomes, Apgar scores and umbilical blood acid-base status between the two vasopressors.ResultsThere was no significant difference observed for the change of heart rate between two vasopressors. The mean standardized area under the curve of heart rate was 78 ± 12 with norepinephrine vs. 74 ± 11 beats/min with phenylephrine (mean difference 4.4, 95%CI − 0.1 to 9.0; P = .0567). The mean standardized area under the curve of systolic blood pressure (SBP) was significantly lower in parturients with norepinephrine, as the mean of differences in standardized AUC of SBP was 6 mmHg, with a 95% CI from 2 to 9 mmHg (P = .0013). However, requirements of physician interventions for correcting maternal hemodynamical abnormalities (temporary cessation of vasopressor infusion for reactive hypertension, rescuing vasopressor bolus for hypotension and atropine for heart rate less < 50 beats/min) and neonatal outcomes were also not significantly different between two vasopressors.ConclusionInfusion of norepinephrine was not associated with less overall decrease in heart rate during cesarean section for twins, compared with phenylephrine.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900021281).

Retrospective analysis of the outcome of the anaesthetic procedures in COVID-19 parturient undergoing cesarean delivery in a tertiary care hospital in Delhi, India

Context: The effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on a parturient undergoing cesarean delivery (CD) is not fully understood. Aims: To evaluate anesthetic management of a COVID parturient undergoing CD. Settings and Design: Tertiary care hospital, retrospective analysis. Methodology: Hospital case record files of COVID-19 parturients who underwent CD were reviewed with respect to clinical presentation, anesthetic technique, peri-operative course, and maternal-fetal outcome. Data Analysis: Continuous variables are reported as mean ± SD or median (range) and categorical variables as numbers (percentages). Results: Hundred COVID-19 parturients underwent CD: Ninety-eight parturients had asymptomatic to mild clinical presentation, whereas two had a severe presentation. Raised liver enzymes, raised D-dimer, and thrombocytopenia were observed in 65, 34, and 11 parturients, respectively. Combined spinal-epidural anesthesia (CSEA), subarachnoid block (SAB), and general anesthesia were administered in 72, 26, and 2 parturients, respectively. Meantime to administration of SAB and CSEA were 23.5 ± 3.2 min and 28.4 ± 2.8 min, respectively. Adequate block height for CD was achieved in all parturients. Post-spinal hypotension that responded promptly to fluids and vasopressors was reported in six parturients. Postoperatively, two parturients required intensive care unit (ICU) care with one maternal mortality. None of the neonates tested positive for COVID-19. Three neonates had a low Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration (APGAR) at 5 min with one neonatal mortality. Conclusions: Neuraxial anesthesia seems to be a safe and preferred anesthetic technique for CD in a COVID-19 parturient. The incidence of post-spinal hypotension is low and responds promptly to treatment. The course of neuraxial anesthesia and the neonatal outcome is unaffected by the COVID-19 status of the patient.

Impact of leg wrapping in combination with leg elevation on postspinal hypotension in subjects undergoing elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia

Impact of leg wrapping in combination with leg elevation on postspinal hypotension in subjects undergoing elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia

Optimum dose of spinal ropivacaine with or without single intravenous bolus of S-ketamine during elective cesarean delivery: a randomized, double-blind, sequential dose-finding study

BackgroundMaternal hypotension after spinal anaesthesia occurs at a high rate during caesarean delivery and can lead to adverse maternal or foetal outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine the optimal dose of spinal ropivacaine for caesarean section with or without intravenous single bolus of S-ketamine and to observe the rates of hypotension associated with both methods.MethodsEighty women undergoing elective caesarean delivery were randomly allocated into either a ropivacaine only or ropivacaine with intravenous S-ketamine group. If the upper sensory level of the patient reached T6 and the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores remained below 3 points before delivery, the next patient had a 1/9th chance of receiving a lower dose or an 8/9th chance of receiving the same dose as the previous patient. If the patient had VAS scores of more than 2 points or needed an extra epidural rescue bolus before delivery, a higher dose was used for the next patient. The primary outcome was the successful use of spinal ropivacaine to maintain patient VAS score of < 3 points before delivery and the incidence of post-spinal hypotension in both groups. Secondary outcomes included the rates of hypotension-related symptoms and interventions, upper sensory level of anaesthesia, level of sedation, neonatal outcomes, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale scores at admission and discharge, and post-operative analgesic effect. The 90% effective dose (ED90) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were estimated by isotonic regression.ResultsThe estimated ED90 of ropivacaine was 11.8 mg (95% CI: 11.7–12.7) with and 14.7 mg (95% CI: 14.6–16.0) without intravenous S-ketamine, using biased coin up-down sequential dose-finding method. The rates of hypotension and associated symptoms were significantly lower in S-ketamine group than in the ropivacaine only group.ConclusionsA spinal dose of ropivacaine 12 mg with a single intravenous 0.15 mg/kg bolus dose of S-ketamine may significantly reduce the risk of hypotension and induce sedation before delivery. This method may be used with appropriate caution for women undergoing elective caesarean delivery and at a high risk of hypotension or experiencing extreme nervousness.Trial registrationhttp://www.chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2000040375; 28/11/2020).

Prophylactic Phenylephrine Increases the Dose Requirement of Oxytocin to Treat Uterine Atony During Cesarean Delivery: A Double-Blinded, Single-Center, Randomized and Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Purpose: Studies involving mouse models and human uterine smooth muscle cells have shown that phenylephrine inhibits uterine contractions in non-pregnant mice and human in vitro cell via cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling. However, there has been no limited exploration to date of the effect of phenylephrine on uterine contractions in clinical practice. This study aimed to compare the dose requirement of oxytocin with or without the infusion of prophylactic phenylephrine to prevent post spinal hypotension during cesarean delivery under combined spinal and epidural anesthesia. Methods: This was a double-blinded, single-center, randomized, control study. One hundred and sixty pregnant patients provided informed consent and were randomly allocated to the phenylephrine (phenylephrine infusion) and control (saline infusion) groups. Patients randomized to the phenylephrine group received an intravenous prophylactic phenylephrine infusion at a fixed rate of 0.5 μg/kg/min. The control group received a saline placebo at the same rate and used the same apparatus for delivery. After neonatal delivery and clamping of the umbilical cord, patients received a standard institutional oxytocin protocol. The primary outcome measure was the total dose of oxytocin administered during CD. Secondary outcomes including the proportion (%) of patients requiring a secondary uterotonic agent and estimated blood loss (EBL) in the first 24 h after surgery. Results: The median oxytocin dose administered was significantly higher in the phenylephrine group than in the control group [6.9 ± 2.5 international standardized units (IU) vs. 5.4 ± 2.4 IU, p = 0.0004]. The number of patients that required a secondary uterotonic agent was significantly higher in the phenylephrine group than in the control group (24.2% vs. 9.1%; p = 0.034). The EBL in the first 24-h postoperatively was similar between the two groups (467 ± 47 ml vs. 392 ± 38 ml; p = 0.22). Conclusions: Prophylactic infusion of phenylephrine used to prevent post-spinal hypotension during CD was associated with a higher dose of oxytocin. This has important clinical implications, as the suboptimal use of oxytocin is associated with an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage and increased maternal morbidity and mortality. Further studies are now needed to confirm these findings.

Comparative study of Prophylactic Intravenous Ondansetron in the Attenuation of Post Spinal Hypotension versus Dexamethasone in Parturient Undergoing Caesarean Delivery

Abstract Background Spinal anaesthesia (SA) is the preferred anaesthesia technique for Caesarean section. Hypotension and bradycardia are the most common side effects encountered and are more pronounced in pregnant patients, the incidence being as high as 52.6% and 2.5% in normal patients. The occurrence of hypotension can be dangerous as it compromises placental circulation and can have a detrimental effect on the foetus. Objectives The purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy of ondansetron versus dexamethasone in decreasing incidence of spinal induced hypotension in parturient undergoing cesarean surgery. Patients and Methods This study was conducted at Ain Shams University Hospitals between March 2019 till September 2019. After approval is obtained from the research ethics committee of faculty of medicine, Ain Shams University &amp; patients’ informed consents consent from each patient after full explanation of the procedure possible side effects and complications., 75 healthy parturient, (ASA)physical status I and II undergoing elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia. Results 8 mg ondansetron is more effective than 8 mg dexamethasone in the attenuation of post spinal hypotension. Also, that Dexamethasone 8 mg was as effective as ondansetron 8 mg in providing a simple, safe, cheap, and effective intra and postoperative nausea and emesis prevention method with the advantage of being cheaper decreasing the economic burden. Conclusion The present study demonstrated that, among patients who received spinal anesthesia with bupivacaine and fentanyl as adjuvant for elective for cesarean section, prophylactic intravenous 8 mg ondansetron compared to dexamethasone significantly decreases hypotension, HR fluctuation, yet the need for rescue doses for ephedrine were significantly higher in ondansetron.

Comparison between mephentermine and ondansetron for the prevention of post spinal hypotension: a prospective randomized trial

Background and Aims: Spinal anesthesia is a technique often associated with side effects like hypotension and bradycardia. Recent studies have shown that the use of ondansetron leads to a decreased incidence of hypotension induced by spinal anesthesia. This prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blind study was done to compare the efficacy of the prophylactic use of intravenous (IV) ondansetron and mephentermine on post-spinal hypotension. Methods: A total of 130 patients were randomly allocated to one of two groups: Group O received 4 mg IV ondansetron and Group M received 6 mg of IV mephentermine. All patients received spinal anesthesia using 3 mL of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine. Assessment of blood pressure and heart rate (HR) was done for 30 minutes after spinal anesthesia was performed. Quantitative data were analyzed using ANOVA tests and qualitative data were analyzed using the Chi-square tests. Results: Both groups were comparable regarding demographic data. Mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) in Group O was lower than Group M at 5 to 25 minutes and difference of MAP between the two groups was &gt; 20% of baseline values (p &lt; 0.05). HR was comparable between groups. No statistically significant differences were seen in side effects between the two groups. Conclusion: Our study shows that the preemptive use of both ondansetron and mephentermine significantly decreases the incidence of post-spinal hypotension.

The effect of ultrasonographic measurement of vena cava inferior diameter on the prediction of post-spinal hypotension in geriatric patients undergoing spinal anaesthesia.

In our study, we aimed to investigate whether end-expiratory vena cava inferior (expVCI) diameter and vena cava inferior collapsibility index predicted post-spinal hypotension in geriatric patients undergoing spinal anaesthesia (SA), the correlation between them and other parameters. Our prospective study included the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I-4, 73 patients over 65years of age, who were scheduled for operation using SA. According to the expVCI diameter displayed with ultrasonographic (USG) before SA, patients with an expVCI diameter less than 1.8cm previously determined as the threshold value are grouped as 1 (small-VCI) group, those greater than 1.8cm as 2 (large-VCI) group. Demographic characteristics of the patients, comorbidities, duration and type of operation, basal (preoperative) heart rate, systolic, diastolic, mean blood pressure, peripheral oxygen saturation values before SA and after SA in supine position (0minute) and 5th, 10th, 15th, 20th, 25th, 30th min and preoperative arterial blood gas parameters, amount of preoperative urine and bleeding, inotropic and fluid requirement, complications were recorded. Hypotension developed in 28 (38.4%) patients and bradycardia in 14(19.2%) of patients. The patients who developed hypotension had more ASA2 and ASA3 (P=.01), shorter height (P=.02) and smaller expVCI diameter (P=.004). It was observed that they had higher lactate (P=.03), lower pH (P=.006) values and more inotropic agents were administered (P<.001). While the rate of developing hypotension was 51.1% (n=23) in the patients in the small-VCI group, this rate was 17.9% (n=5) in the patients in the large-VCI group (P=.004). It was concluded that the expVCI diameter value measured by USG before SA in older adults is effective in predicting post-spinal hypotension with lactate and pH values, which are among the blood gas parameters, and expVCI can be preferred to invasive methods because of its noninvasive, easy and fast application.

Regional tissue oxygen saturation as a predictor of post-spinal anesthesia hypotension for cesarean delivery.

Regional tissue oxygen saturation as a predictor of post-spinal anesthesia hypotension for cesarean delivery.

The ED50 and ED95 of Prophylactic Norepinephrine for Preventing Post-Spinal Hypotension During Cesarean Delivery Under Combined Spinal-Epidural Anesthesia: A Prospective Dose-Finding Study.

Background: Hypotension commonly occurs with spinal anesthesia during cesarean delivery. Norepinephrine is an alternative to phenylephrine which can be used to prevent or treat hypotension, with better maintained cardiac output and less bradycardia. However, an appropriate initial prophylactic infusion dose of norepinephrine remains unclear. The aim of this study was to describe the dose-response relationship of prophylactic norepinephrine infusion during cesarean delivery under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia. Methods: We performed a prospective, randomized, double-blinded dose-finding study. One hundred patients undergoing elective cesarean delivery were randomly assigned to receive an infusion of norepinephrine at 0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075 or 0.1 μg/kg/min initiated immediately after intrathecal injection of 10 mg bupivacaine combined with 5 µg sufentanil. An effective dose was considered when there was no hypotension (systolic blood pressure < 90 mm Hg or < 80% of baseline) during the time period from injection of intrathecal local anesthetic to delivery of the neonate. The primary aim was to determine the dose-response relationship of norepinephrine to prevent spinal anesthesia-induced hypotension. The median effective dose (ED50) and 95% effective dose (ED95) for norepinephrine were calculated utilizing probit analysis. Results: The proportion of patients with hypotension was 80, 70, 40, 15 and 5% at norepinephrine doses of 0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075 and 0.1 μg/kg/min, respectively. The ED50 and ED95 were 0.042 (95% CI, 0.025–0.053) µg/kg/min and 0.097 (95% CI, 0.081–0.134) µg/kg/min, respectively. There were no differences in the Apgar scores (p = 0.685) or umbilical arterial pH (p = 0.485) measurements of the newborns among the treatment groups. Conclusion: A norepinephrine infusion of 0.1 μg/kg/min as an initial starting dose was effective for the prevention of spinal-induced hypotension.

A Randomized Double-Blinded Dose-dependent Study of Metaraminol for Preventing Spinal-Induced Hypotension in Caesarean Delivery.

Purpose: Prophylactic infusion of a vasopressor is preferred as a rational choice in clinical practice in Cesarean delivery. Metaraminol is one of most common vasopressors used in obstetric clinical practice. However, the dose-response of metaraminol has not been fully determined and the optimal infusion dose is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the median effective dose (ED50) and 90% effective dose (ED90) of weight-based fixed-rate metaraminol infusions for preventing spinal-anesthesia-induced hypotension in patients having combined spinal-epidural anesthesia for elective Caesarean delivery. Methods: One hundred and seventeen patients with singleton pregnancies were enrolled and randomly allocated into one of five groups in this study. Patients received prophylactic metaraminol infusion at a fixed rate of 0, 0.25, 1.0, 1.75 or 2.5 μg/kg/min in each group immediately after induction with intrathecal 10 mg of hyperbaric bupivacaine mixed with 5 μg of sufentanil. An effective prophylactic dose was defined as no occurrence of hypotension during the period of spinal introduction and neonatal delivery. Values for ED50 and ED90 of prophylactic infusion of metaraminol were calculated using probit regression. Characteristics of spinal anesthesia and side effects were recorded. Results: The ED50 and ED90 values of weight-based fixed rate of metaraminol infusion were 0.64 (95% CI, 0.04–1.00) μg/kg/min and 2.00 (95% CI, 1.58–2.95) μg/kg/min respectively. The incidence of hypotension decreased with an increased infusion rate of metaraminol in the five groups (test for trend, p < 0.001). The incidence of hypotension was similar between group 0 and 0.25, but significant higher than other groups; the incidence of hypotension was also similar between group 1.0 and 1.75, but higher than group 2.5. The incidence of reactive hypertension was significantly higher in group 2.5 compared to the other groups. Physician interventions were more frequent in group 0, 0.25 and 2.5 than in group 1.0 and 1.75 (adjusted p < 0.001). No difference was found in neonatal outcomes, including Apgar score and pH value of the umbilical artery. Conclusion: In summary, we have compared four different prophylactic weight-based infusion doses of metaraminol for preventing post-spinal hypotension in Cesarean delivery. The ED50 and ED90 values of metaraminol infusion for preventing spinal anesthesia-induced hypotension were 0.64 μg/kg/min and 2.00 μg/kg/min, respectively. This finding may be helpful for guiding clinical practice and further research.

Implications of Continuous Noninvasive Finger Cuff Arterial Pressure Device Use during Cesarean Delivery for Goal-Directed Fluid Therapy Preload Optimization: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background Although fixed-volume conventional fluid preloading protocol fails to attenuate postspinal hypotension during cesarean delivery, the effect of goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) remains less explored. Continuous noninvasive finger cuff arterial pressure monitoring using devices such as the ClearSight System can provide the noninvasive stroke volume value, enabling clinicians to perform GDFT before spinal anesthesia; however, the efficacy of GDFT requires further elucidation. Method In total, 71 consecutive full-term pregnant women were randomly divided into a control group (n = 34) and a GDFT group (n = 37). Before spinal anesthesia, the control group received a fixed dose (1000 mL) of crystalloid fluid, but the GDFT group received repeated 3 mL/kg body weight of crystalloid fluid challenges within 3 minutes with a 1-minute interval between each fluid challenge based on the stroke volume incremental changes obtained using the ClearSight System (targeting a stroke volume increase of ≥5% after a fluid challenge). The primary outcome was the incidence of postspinal hypotension. The secondary outcomes were total fluid volume, vasopressor dosage, hemodynamic parameter changes, maternal adverse effects, and neonatal profiles. Result Women in the GDFT group received more fluid than did those in the control group (1132 ± 108 vs. 1247 ± 202 mL; p = 0.0044), but the incidence of postspinal hypotension (79.4% vs. 73.0%,; p = 0.5864) and norepinephrine dose (12.5 ± 10.6 vs. 15.1 ± 12.8 mcg, respectively; p = 0.3512) was comparable between the two groups. Fewer women in the GDFT group experienced nausea (61.76% vs. 35.14%; p = 0.0332). Neonatal outcomes (Apgar score and umbilical blood analysis) were comparable and typical in both groups. Conclusion ClearSight-guided GDFT did not ameliorate postspinal hypotension but may reduce nausea. This trial is registered with NCT03013140.

Restrictive versus liberal perioperative fluid strategies to prevent post-dural puncture headache after cesarean delivery

BackgroundPost-dural puncture headache is a common complication after cesarean delivery. The role of fluid therapy in prevention of post-dural puncture headache is not clear. The aim of this work is to compare restrictive versus liberal perioperative fluid protocols in prevention of post-dural puncture headache. A randomized controlled trial was conducted including 100 full-term pregnant women undergoing cesarean delivery under spinal block. After receiving spinal block, all patients received 1.5 mcg/kg phenylephrine and crystalloid co-load at a rate of 10 mL/h. Patients were assigned into either restrictive group (did not receive fluid preload + received postoperative crystalloid therapy at a rate of 2 mL/kg/h till resuming oral fluids) or liberal group (received crystalloid preload 5 mL/kg before spinal block + received postoperative crystalloids at a rate of 6 mL/kg/h till resuming oral fluids. Both groups were compared according to the incidence of post-dural puncture headache, pain scores, systolic blood pressure, heart rate, incidence of post-spinal hypotension, nausea, and vomiting.ResultsThe incidence of post-dural puncture headache was lower in the restrictive group compared to the liberal group {10(20%) vs 22(44%), P = 0.018}. All other secondary outcomes were comparable between both groups.ConclusionRestrictive fluid therapy was associated with lower incidence of PDPH after cesarean delivery without impacting patient hemodynamic profile.

A randomised double-blind comparison of phenylephrine and norepinephrine for the management of postspinal hypotension in pre-eclamptic patients undergoing caesarean section.

Studies comparing phenylephrine and norepinephrine for the treatment of postspinal hypotension in pre-eclamptic patients are limited. To compare bolus doses of phenylephrine and norepinephrine for treating hypotension in pre-eclamptic mothers undergoing caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia. It was hypothesised that norepinephrine and phenylephrine use would be associated with similar neonatal outcome. Randomised controlled study. Single centre, tertiary care, university teaching hospital, from December 2018 to March 2020. A total of 86 women with pre-eclampsia and a singleton pregnancy who developed postspinal hypotension during caesarean section. Patients received intravenous phenylephrine (50 μg) or norepinephrine (4 μg) for treatment of hypotension, defined as a fall in baseline systolic BP by ≥ 20% or an absolute value < 100 mmHg. The primary outcome was umbilical artery pH. Secondary outcomes included Apgar scores, the number of hypotensive episodes, vasopressor requirements, the incidence of tachycardia/bradycardia/arrhythmias/hypertension and maternal complications. Umbilical artery pH was not different between the phenylephrine and norepinephrine groups (7.26 ± 0.06 and 7.27 ± 0.06, respectively; P = 0.903). The median [IQR] number of hypotensive episodes was higher in the norepinephrine than the phenylephrine group: 2 [1 to 3] vs 1 [1 to 2], respectively; P = 0.014. Apgar scores, total number of vasopressor boluses required, systolic BP trends and the incidence of maternal complications were comparable in the two groups. Heart rate (HR) values were lower in phenylephrine group (P = 0.026), and one patient in phenylephrine group and none in the norepinephrine group developed bradycardia (HR < 50 bpm), P = 1.000. In women with pre-eclampsia undergoing caesarean section, bolus doses of phenylephrine (50 μg) and norepinephrine (4 μg) used to treat hypotension after spinal anaesthesia are equally effective with similar neonatal and maternal outcomes. CTRI/2018/11/016478.

Prophylactic efficacy of intravenous atropine with crystalloid co-loading for hemodynamic stability in parturient undergoing cesarean delivery at Dilla University Referral Hospital. A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThe main objective of this study is to assess the prophylactic efficacy of intravenous atropine for the prevention of hypotension after spinal anesthesia in a parturient who underwent cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia. MethodA randomized controlled trial study was conducted at Dilla University hospital. Pregnant women scheduled for elective cesarean section were randomized to either atropine prophylaxis (n = 33) or active prophylaxis (n = 33) for prevention of post-spinal hypotension. Sample sizes were calculated using a G-power version 3.1.9.2 getting a total of 66 participants. Intraoperative blood pressure, heart rate, and incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting were assessed. Paired sample t-test was used to compare each group change from baseline. Independent t-test and Manny Whitney tests were used based on the distribution of data. A statistically significant difference was determined at a p-value of ≤05. ResultBoth systolic and diastolic blood pressure declined from the baseline in both groups after spinal anesthesia. Atropine didn't prevent a decline in blood pressure from the baseline during the first 60 min of initiation of spinal anesthesia (p > 0.05). Heart rates at the 15th and 20th minute were higher in the atropine group (p < 0.05). There is no statistically significant difference between groups regarding mean Apgar score, and neonatal outcome. The total crystalloid fluid given during the perioperative period is higher in the active prophylaxis group with a mean of 2151.5 ml compared to 1651.52 ml in the atropine group p = 0.002. The incidence of intraoperative nausea and vomiting was higher in the active prophylaxis group compared to the atropine group but the difference is not statistically significant p > 0.05 as it was shown in the figure below. ConclusionProphylactic administration of atropine didn't prevent a decline in blood pressure from baseline. The incidence of nausea and vomiting was lower in the atropine group with no statistically significant difference.

The transverse diameter of right common femoral vein by ultrasound in the supine position for predicting post-spinal hypotension during cesarean delivery

BackgroundPost-spinal anesthesia hypotension during cesarean delivery is caused by decreased systemic vascular resistance due to the blockage of the autonomic nerves, which is further worsened by inferior vena cava (IVC) compression by the gravid uterus. This study aimed to assess whether peak velocity and diameter of the IVC below the xiphoid or right common femoral vein (RCFV) in the inguinal region, as measured on ultrasound, could reflect the degree of IVC compression and further identify parturients at risk of post-spinal hypotension.MethodsFifty-six parturients who underwent elective cesarean section with spinal anesthesia were included in this study; peak velocities and anteroposterior diameters of the IVC and peak velocities and transverse diameters of the RCFV were measured using ultrasound before anesthesia. The primary outcome was the ultrasound measurements of IVC and RCFV acquired before spinal anesthesia and their association with post-spinal hypotension. Hypotension was defined as a drop in systolic arterial pressure by > 20% from the baseline. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to identify the association between the measurements of IVC, RCFV, and post-spinal hypotension during cesarean delivery. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to test the abilities of the identified parameters to predict post-spinal hypotension; the areas under the curve and optimum cut-off values for the predictive parameters were calculated.ResultsA longer transverse diameter of the RCFV was associated with the occurrence of post-spinal hypotension (odds ratio = 2.022, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.261–3.243). The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve for the prediction of post-spinal hypotension was 0.759 (95% CI 0.628–0.890, P = 0.001). A transverse diameter of > 12.2 mm of the RCFV could predict post-spinal hypotension during cesarean delivery.ConclusionsA longer transverse diameter of RCFV was associated with hypotension and could predict parturients at a major risk of hypotension before anesthesia.Trial registrationThis study was registered at http://www.chictr.org.cn on 16, May, 2018. No. ChiCTR1800016163.

Dexamethasone blunts postspinal hypotension in geriatric patients undergoing orthopedic surgery: a double blind, placebo-controlled study

BackgroundPost-spinal anesthesia (PSA) hypotension in elderly patients is challenging. Correction of PSA hypotension by fluids either colloids or crystalloids or by vasoconstrictors pose the risk of volume overload or compromising cardiac conditions. Dexamethasone is used to treat conditions manifested by decrease of peripheral vascular resistance. The research team was the first to test the hypothesis of its role in preventing or decreasing the incidence of PSA hypotension.MethodsOne hundred ten patients, aged 60 years or more were recruited to receive a single preoperative dose of dexamethasone 8 mg IVI in 100 ml normal saline (D group) (55 patients) 2 h preoperatively, and 55 patients were given placebo (C group) in a randomized, double-blind trial. Variations in blood pressure and heart rate in addition to the needs of ephedrine and/or atropine following spinal anesthesia (SA) were recorded. SA was achieved using subarachnoid injection of 3 ml hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5%.ResultsDemographic data and the quality of sensory and motor block were comparable between groups. At 5th, 10th minutes post SA; systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressures were statistically significant higher in D group. At 20th minutes post SA; the obtained blood pressure readings and heart rate changes didn’t show any statistically significance between groups. The need for ephedrine and side effects were statistically significant lower in D group than C group.ConclusionPost-spinal anesthesia hypotension, nausea, vomiting and shivering in elderly patients were less common after receiving a single preoperative dose of dexamethasone 8 mg IVI than control.Registration numberClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT 03664037, Registered 17 September 2018 - Retrospectively registered, http://www.ClinicalTrial.gov

Comparative Study Among Ephedrine, Norepinephrine and Phenylephrine Infusions to Prevent Spinal Hypotension During Cesarean Section. A Randomized Controlled Double-Blind Study

ABSTRACT Background: Spinal anesthesia is the recommended technique in elective cesarean sections. Usage of vasopressors is more widely accepted as an effective method for decreasing postspinal hypotension than fluid loading. However, the ideal vasopressor to prevent spinal hypotension during cesarean section has been a subject of much debate. It should maintain maternal blood pressure and placental perfusion, with minimal adverse effect on fetus and mother. Aim: The primary aim was to compare the effect of prophylactic infusion of phenylephrine versus norepinephrine versus ephedrine in the prevention of postspinal hypotension in elective cesarean section. The secondary aim was to assess their effects on neonate. Methods: Seventy-five patients were enrolled in this study and randomly divided into three groups. Group P received phenylephrine infusion and group N received norepinephrine infusion, while group E received ephedrine infusion. The changes in mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate were recorded throughout the surgery. Maternal and neonatal perioperative complications were controlled and recorded. Results: MAP were higher in the ephedrine group than the phenylephrine and norepinephrine groups. Maternal tachycardia was significantly more common in ephedrine, and bradycardia was more common in phenylephrine group without significant difference. Nausea and vomiting were more common in ephedrine group. Neonatal acidosis was lesser in phenylephrine and norepinephrine groups than in the ephedrine group. Conclusion: Prophylactic infusion of phenylephrine and norepinephrine can be successfully used to prevent postspinal hypotension in parturient undergoing cesarean section with less drawbacks and fetal well-being than ephedrine.

A randomized, double-blinded comparative study of phenylephrine infusion and norepinephrine infusion for the prevention and treatment of spinal anesthesia-induced hypotension in elective and emergency cesarean deliveries

Context and Aims: Among vasopressors used to treat postspinal hypotension (PSH) in cesarean sections (CS), phenylephrine (PE) is the preferred drug at present but reflex bradycardia and thus reduction in cardiac output still pose a concern. Norepinephrine (NE), with its better pharmacological properties, may be a better alternative to overcome this risk. Hence, we did this study intending to compare both the drugs. Materials and Methods: A double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial (RCT) was carried out on 70 patients, 35 in each group-group P (PE) and group N (NE) undergoing CS, to compare and evaluate the efficacy of both drugs for preventing and treating PSH. Patients in Group P and Group N were given intravenous infusion of PE at the rate of 50 μg/min and NE at the rate of 2.5 μg/min, respectively, after the intrathecal injection of bupivacaine. The number of intermittent bolus doses required, heart rate, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) at predefined intervals were noted. Results: The incidence of hypotension calculated from the number of bolus doses required was lower in Group N than in Group P for the initial 15 min (P Conclusion: This study suggests that NE infusion is superior to PE infusion when used in the potency ratio of 20:1, to prevent and treat PSH in CS, with a lesser number of side effects.