International journal of obstetric anesthesia
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Int J Obstet Anesth · Dec 2024
Review"This is how we do it" Maternal and fetal anesthetic management for fetoscopic myelomeningocele repairs: the Texas Children's Fetal Center protocol.
Prenatal repair of myelomeningocele (MMC) is associated with lower rates of hydrocephalus requiring ventriculoperitoneal shunt and improved motor function when compared with postnatal repair. Efforts aiming to develop less invasive surgical techniques to decrease the risk for the pregnant patient while achieving similar benefits for the fetus have led to the implementation of fetoscopic surgical techniques. While no ideal anesthetic technique for fetoscopic MMC repair has been demonstrated, we present our anesthetic approach for these repairs, including considerations for both the pregnant patient and the fetus. ⋯ Additional considerations for the fetus include monitoring, fetal resuscitation strategies, and the theoretical risk of anesthetic neurotoxicity. Postoperatively, we use a multi-modal, opioid sparing regimen for analgesia. As advances in fetal surgery aiming to minimize risk to the pregnant patient alter the surgical approach, maternal-fetal anesthesiologists must adapt and incorporate the unique considerations of fetoscopy into their anesthetic management.
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Int J Obstet Anesth · Nov 2024
ReviewResuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) as a strategy for postpartum haemorrhage management: A narrative review.
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) remains one of the leading causes of maternal mortality worldwide, with a significant impact on global health. Optimal management of PPH involves distinct steps executed simultaneously by a multidisciplinary approach, with anesthesiologists playing a key role in hemodynamic control and patient resuscitation. In this context, an aortic blood flow interruption through an internal balloon should be considered a rescue option among the various opportunities, to treat or prevent abdominal hemorrhages. ⋯ At the same time, challenges such as the need for skilled operators, potential complications, costs, and the consideration of fetal safety were also discussed. REBOA presents as a promising tool against PPH, with efficacy in reducing blood loss, preserving fertility, and potentially decreasing maternal mortality and improving outcomes. However, its implementation requires careful consideration, training, and further research to establish clear guidelines for its use in obstetric care.
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Int J Obstet Anesth · Nov 2024
ReviewExtracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in pregnancy and peripartum: a focused review.
As the medical complexity of pregnant patients increases, the rate of maternal morbidity has risen. Maternal cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality followed closely by sepsis and infection, both of which may be associated with respiratory failure. ⋯ Obstetricians and anesthesiologists who care for women on the labor floor must strive to recognize at-risk and deteriorating patients, facilitate escalation of care when appropriate, and engage consultant teams to consider the need for extracorporeal support in high-risk circumstances. This article reviews the epidemiology, indications, specific considerations, potential complications, and outcomes of extracorporeal life support in pregnant and peripartum patients.
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Int J Obstet Anesth · Nov 2024
ReviewPeripartum management of cardiac arrhythmias: a narrative review.
Cardiac arrhythmias are responsible for a significant portion of cardiovascular disease among pregnant people. As the incidence of arrhythmias in pregnancy continues to increase, anesthesiologists who care for obstetric patients should be experts managing arrhythmias in pregnancy. ⋯ Peripartum monitoring and labor analgesia recommendations are discussed. Additionally, management of cardioversion, management of pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, and advanced cardiac life support in the setting of pregnancy is reviewed.