International journal of obstetric anesthesia
-
Int J Obstet Anesth · Nov 2024
ReviewObstetric anesthesia management of dilated cardiomyopathies and heart failure: a narrative review.
Pregnancy in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy carries a significantly increased risk of maternal mortality or severe morbidity, and pregnancy is typically considered contraindicated for patients with severely reduced ventricular function. Nonetheless, anesthesiologists will still encounter patients with cardiomyopathy requiring delivery or termination care. ⋯ Vaginal delivery, with effective neuraxial anesthesia is the preferred mode of delivery in most patients with cardiomyopathy, with cesarean delivery reserved for maternal or fetal indications. The Pregnancy Heart Team is vital in coordinating the multidisciplinary care necessary to safely support these patients through pregnancy.