International journal of obstetric anesthesia
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Int J Obstet Anesth · May 2015
Patient-controlled intranasal fentanyl analgesia: a pilot study to assess practicality and tolerability during childbirth.
Intranasal administration of fentanyl is a non-invasive method of analgesic delivery which has been shown to be effective. This pilot study aimed to assess the practicality and tolerability of patient-controlled intranasal fentanyl for relieving pain during childbirth. ⋯ Patient-controlled intranasal fentanyl provides an acceptable level of analgesia during childbirth. It may, however, increase the risk of neonatal respiratory depression. Future, randomised studies should evaluate the safety and efficacy of patient-controlled intranasal fentanyl compared with existing analgesia options.
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Int J Obstet Anesth · May 2015
ReviewAnesthetic management of labor and delivery in patients with elevated intracranial pressure.
The anesthetic management of labor and delivery in patients with elevated intracranial pressure is complex. This review discusses the etiologies of diffuse and focal pathologies which lead to elevated intracranial pressure in pregnancy. The role of neuraxial and general anesthesia in the management of labor and delivery is also examined. Finally, a comprehensive review of strategies to minimize increases in intracranial pressure during general anesthesia for cesarean delivery is presented.
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The pitfalls surrounding securing the airway in the obstetric patient are well documented. From Tunstall's original failed intubation drill onwards, there has been progress both in recognition of the difficulties of airway management in the pregnant patient and development of algorithms to enhance patient safety. ⋯ They improve glottic visualisation and are useful in the management of the difficult non-obstetric airway, including those in morbidly obese patients and in the setting of a rapid-sequence induction. There is growing interest in the potential use of video laryngoscopes in the obstetric population and as a teaching tool to maximise training opportunities.
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HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets) complicates 0.5-0.9% of pregnancies and is frequently associated with multiorgan dysfunction. Treatment relies on prompt diagnosis, delivery and supportive care. The clinical presentation may make the concurrent diagnosis and management of other disease entities challenging. This case report describes a patient with postpartum HELLP syndrome complicated by severe multiorgan dysfunction and pulmonary embolism.