International journal of obstetric anesthesia
-
Int J Obstet Anesth · Apr 1998
Continuous caudal analgesia in labour for a patient with Harrington rods.
We report the case of a 29-year-old patient who had Harrington rods inserted from T8 to L4 at the age of 14. She had been discouraged from having epidural anaesthesia in the antenatal clinic but, whilst in labour, requested analgesia in addition to Entonox and pethidine. Continuous caudal analgesia was commenced and provided good pain relief for labour and delivery.
-
Int J Obstet Anesth · Apr 1998
Complete recovery after near-fatal venous air embolism during cesarean section.
During replacement to the abdomen of the exteriorized uterus at cesarean section under epidural block, a previously healthy woman developed cardiorespiratory arrest. Tracheal intubation revealed low end-tidal carbon dioxide concentration suggesting embolization. Resuscitative efforts were successful. Uterine exteriorization - as well as the Trendelenburg position - significantly increase the risk of air embolization so that routine use of appropriate monitors is indicated to facilitate early diagnosis.