Impact of Ultrasound in Obstetric Anesthesia Central Blocks

Obstetric anesthesia generally posed low risks; however, the difficulty of the procedure and the potential complications increased due to the anatomical and physiological changes associated with pregnancy.

The aim of study was to measure epidural and intrathecal distances in pregnant women undergoing cesarean sections and to evaluate the relationship between the skin-subdural distance (Ultrasound depth) and needle depth. The investigator assessed the accuracy of Ultrasound in determining the needle entry site, needle distance (measured at the site where cerebrospinal fluid flow occurred or where there was a loss of resistance in the epidural space), trial numbers, and block success. Additionally, occurrences of paresthesia and lower back pain during the procedure, as well as postoperative headaches following dural puncture, were queried and recorded.

After obtaining approval from the Ege University Faculty of Medicine Ethical Committee, the study was prospectively conducted in the operating room of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Ege University Hospital. One hundred pregnant women classified as ASA I-II, between 37-42 gestational weeks, undergoing elective cesarean sections with neuraxial blocks (spinal and/or epidural), were included after obtaining their consent.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients classified as ASA I-II
• Patients at 37-42 gestational weeks
• Patients scheduled for elective cesarean section under neuraxial block (spinal and/or epidural)

Exclusion criteria

• Patients who did not consent to spinal anesthesia
• Patients with contraindications for regional anesthesia (coagulopathy, local or systemic infection)
• Emergency patients