International journal of obstetric anesthesia
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Int J Obstet Anesth · Nov 2013
ReviewInteractive technology in obstetric anaesthesia and analgesia: exploring seamless solutions to jagged problems.
Perioperative care often involves treating rapid changes in a patient's physiological profile that requires timely intervention by anaesthetists. Interactive technology and closed-loop systems are currently developed in obstetric anaesthesia and analgesia for maintaining parameters during caesarean section and epidural analgesia. ⋯ The components of an interactive system such as the input sensor or device, microprocessor-based control unit and the effector are introduced. Developments in continuous, non-invasive blood pressure monitoring, control algorithms and smart pump technology would help to redefine how technology can assist obstetric anaesthetists to provide better care and improve clinical outcomes for pregnant women.
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Int J Obstet Anesth · Nov 2013
ReviewAmniotic fluid embolism: a leading cause of maternal death yet still a medical conundrum.
Amniotic fluid embolism is a rare and potentially catastrophic condition that is unique to pregnancy. The presentation may range from relatively subtle clinical events to sudden maternal cardiac arrest. Despite an increased awareness of the condition, it remains a leading cause of maternal mortality. ⋯ This can result in a wide spectrum of clinical findings, with cardiovascular and haematological disturbances being prominent. The management of a suspected episode of amniotic fluid embolism is generally considered to be supportive, although in centres with specific expertise, echocardiography may assist in guiding management. Whilst outcomes after an episode of amniotic fluid embolism are still concerning, mortality would appear to have decreased in recent times, likely secondary to an improved awareness of the condition, advances in acute care and the inclusion of less severe episodes in case registries.
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Parturients with renal insufficiency or failure present a significant challenge for the anesthesiologist. Impaired renal function compromises fertility and increases both maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Close communication amongst medical specialists, including nephrologists, obstetricians, neonatologists and anesthesiologists is required to ensure the safety of mother and child. ⋯ Kidney function may deteriorate during pregnancy, necessitating early intervention. The goal is to maintain hemodynamic and physiologic stability while the demands of the pregnancy change. Drugs that may adversely affect the fetus, are nephrotoxic or are dependent on renal elimination should be avoided.
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Int J Obstet Anesth · Jul 2013
ReviewAllergic reactions during labour analgesia and caesarean section anaesthesia.
Allergic reactions in the parturient are challenging for the anaesthetist who is dealing with both mother and baby, often in circumstances when there is a need for delivery. While most previous reviews have focused on specific substances in individual cases, this review focuses on allergic reactions during the peripartum period, the differential diagnosis and specific treatment options. Immunoregulation and susceptibility to allergic reactions may change during pregnancy. ⋯ Most drugs used for resuscitation of the non-pregnant patient are suitable for the parturient. Some substances, such as H2-receptor antagonists for aspiration prophylaxis or corticosteroids for prematurity, may have been given before the event. Although fetal outcome is important, the mother is the primary focus of care.
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Int J Obstet Anesth · Apr 2013
Review Meta AnalysisA meta-analysis of the effect of inspired oxygen concentration on the incidence of surgical site infection following cesarean section.
There has been interest in using high inspired oxygen concentrations to reduce surgical site infections in the obstetric population. Previous meta-analyses looking at the effect of high-concentration oxygen in other surgical populations have reported conflicting results. However, no meta-analysis has been performed on women undergoing cesarean section, who are generally a healthier population and thus may have different outcomes. The aim of this study was to complete a meta-analysis comparing high (>60%) and low (<40%) inspired concentrations of oxygen and determine the risk of surgical site infections in patients undergoing cesarean section. ⋯ There is no evidence to suggest a difference in risk of surgical site infection by administration of high inspired oxygen concentrations among women undergoing cesarean section. Future studies with better adherence to the intervention may affect the results of this analysis.