Randomised Comparison of General Anaesthesia & Subarachnoid Block for Caesarean Delivary in Pregnancies Complicated by Eclampsia

Abstract

General anaesthesia & subaracnoid block were used randomly in women with eclampsia who required caesarian delivery to evaluate the maternal and foetal effects of the two anaesthetic methods. The haemodynamic parameters, level of consciousness of the mothers and APGAR scores of the neonates were assessed. A total 60 women with eclampsia underwent caesarean section were allocated randomly received either of the techniques. Both the techniques provided good quality anaesthesia. At arrival in OT, there was no significant difference of MAP between two groups. But following induction there developed significant difference between two groups & within the same group. There was no significant difference of neurological status between two groups within 24 hours after operation. There were significant difference of Apgar scores in 1 min. after birth & at 5 min. no significant difference were found between the two groups. Out of 30 infants of GA group II had to resuscitate with Ambu-mask ventilation & 6 babies had to sent special care unit. From SAB group 2 infants received resuscitation & one baby had to sent special care unit. In the context of Bangladesh, General anaesthesia as well as Subaracnoid block are equally acceptable for LUCS in eclamptic mothers, if steps are taken to ensure a careful approach to either method.

Journal of BSA, Vol. 19, No. 1 & 2, 2006 p.44-50