British journal of anaesthesia
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Clinical Trial
Continuous extradural infusion of ropivacaine 2 mg ml-1 for pain relief during labour.
We have assessed the dose-response relationship of a solution of ropivacaine 2 mg ml-1, given as a continuous extradural infusion to women in labour. A total of 133 parturients were allocated randomly to one of four groups to receive a fixed rate ropivacaine infusion of 4, 6, 8 or 10 ml h-1 with additional bolus doses as necessary. ⋯ There were no significant differences between groups in terms of obstetric or neonatal outcome. We conclude that ropivacaine 2 mg ml-1 was effective and well tolerated when given as a continuous extradural infusion at 6-8 ml h-1 and may be used as the sole analgesic during labour.