A Comparitive Study of Ephedrine Infusion with the  Preload of Crystalloids for Prevention of Hypotension  During Spinal Anaesthesia for Elective Caesarean  Section

Dr.Madhusoodana R Bhovi; Dr.Shridevi A.S.; Dr.Vinoda V.Rao

Volume : IV, Issue : II, February - 2014

A Comparitive Study of Ephedrine Infusion with the Preload of Crystalloids for Prevention of Hypotension During Spinal Anaesthesia for Elective Caesarean Section

Dr. Madhusoodana R Bhovi, Dr. Shridevi A. S. , Dr. Vinoda V. Rao

Abstract :

Aims and objectives-We studied the efficacy of ephedrine for preventing hypotension in patients undergoing caesarean section under spinal anesthesia. The aims and objectives were 1.To assess- the efficacy of an ephedrine infusion with crystalloid preloading for reducing incidence of hypotension during spinal anesthesia for elective caesarean section.2. To assess- the hemodynamic changes after ephedrine infusion during spinal anesthesia for caesarean section.3.To assess- the neonatal outcome after ephedrine infusion during spinal anesthesia for caesarean section Methodology-A total 100 female inpatients between 18 and 40 years undergoing elective caesarean section under spinal anesthesia. They were randomly allocated to receive either ephedrine infusion (Group A) or 20ml/kg of Ringer’s Lactate solution as preloading solution prior to SAB. Heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure were recorded every minute for the first 20 minutes and once in five minutes for the next 60 minutes. The incidence of hypotension and the mean dose requirements of ephedrine were noted after spinal anesthesia. Also neonatal assessment done by Apgar scoring at 1 and 5 minutes in both the groups. Results-The incidence of hypotension was 6 of 50 (12%) in Group A, 30 of 50 (60%) in Group B. The ephedrine bolus requirements were also less in group A when compared to group B which was statistically significant. There was no significant difference in Apgar scores between two both groups at1 and 5 minutes. Conclusion-It can be concluded from the present study that ephedrine infusion offsets hypotension and hypovolemia more effectively than crystalloids in patients scheduled for elective caesarean section under spinal anesthesia.