Carotid Flow Measurements in Pregnant Women

In this study, Doppler ultrasound measurements will be taken to evaluate the diameter and flow velocity of the left carotid artery in pregnant women aged 20-40 years, classified as ASA 1-2 term and uncomplicated, upon their arrival at the operating room in the supine position. Measurements will be performed three times at the cricoid level, before the carotid bifurcation, and directly from the arch to mitigate any errors due to the measurer. These measurements will be conducted by the same individual (B.C) and repeated three minutes after returning to the supine position post-spinal anaesthesia, with changes between the two measurements recorded.

The spinal anaesthesia dose will be standardized with 10 mg of heavy bupivacaine and 10 mcg of fentanyl. Hemodynamic data from the time patients enter the operating room until baby delivery will be recorded.

Hypotension during this period will be defined as (1) a decrease in systolic blood pressure >30% or a decrease in mean arterial pressure (MAP) >20% from baseline, or (2) systolic blood pressure <90 mmHg or MAP <65 mmHg. Carotid flow measurements and the amount of crystalloid administered during spinal anaesthesia will be noted in hypotensive and non-hypotensive patients.

Inclusion criteria

• "Uncomplicated term pregnant women aged 20-40 years classified as ASA 1-2.

Exclusion criteria

• Those diagnosed with preeclampsia or eclampsia or with systolic blood pressure above 160

Individuals with arrhythmia

Individuals with contraindications for spinal anesthesia

Individuals with Ba MI over 40

Those with a gestational age under 36 weeks or over 41 weeks

Individuals with chronic kidney insufficiency (GRF under 60)

Those with carotid stenosis or a history of previous cerebrovascular events

Patients with placental anomalies

Those initially planned for expected delivery but later switched to cesarean after being taken to trauma.

Patients were taken to the operating room with an emergency cesarean decision

In case of failed spinal anaesthesia, those who switched to general anaesthesia before delivery