Article Notes
Chazot et al. describe a 25 yo undergoing a Nissen fundoplication, receiving TCI propofol/remifentanil (targets of 2.3 ug/mL & 4 ng/mL respectively) along with rocuronium. The deep neuromuscular block was reversed with sugammadex 4 mg/kg and the patient awoke within 80 seconds (clinically and BIS > 90) despite TCI targets continuing. No awareness was noted.
A very practical review of the evidence, indications and rationale for the perimortem cesarean section. Richard Parry describes the specific steps required to perform a PMCS, along with discussion of the pros and cons of different approaches. The importance of multidisciplinary training is emphasised.
A review of all published perimortem cesarean section case reports by Vern Katz, following up his article in 1986 first recommending this procedure.
While this does not offer proof of benefit (huge survival selection bias), of the 38 cases reported, 34 neonates survived (includes multiple gestations), and of the 20 cases with reversible causes, 13 mothers were discharged from hospital.
Katz writes:
In 12 of 18 reports that documented hemodynamic status, cesarean delivery preceded return of maternal pulse and blood pressure, often in a dramatic fashion. Eight other cases noted improvement in maternal status. Importantly, in no case was there deterioration of the maternal condition with the cesarean delivery.
This is the first published recommendation for perimortem cesarean sections in maternal cardiac arrest – from Katz, Dotters and Droegemueller (1986).
It was this recommendation that lead to the ‘4 minute rule’ for deciding to commence a CS in a resuscitation scenario, with the aim of delivering the baby within 5 minutes.
McDonnell makes a concerning observation regarding the ageing maternity population and subsequent potential for increasing rates of maternal arrest:
With the change in the obstetric population characteristic to women being older, heavier, and having more complex medical problems during pregnancy, the number of women who become seriously unwell while pregnant is likely to increase.