Abstract

Neuraxial block is the recommended method for caesarean section as general anaesthesia carries higher chances of maternal and foetal morbidity/mortality.The current study comparesintrathecal administration of premixed vs serial injection of fentanyl as an adjuvant drug to low dosage heavy bupivacaine in lower segment caesarean section. Material and Methods: The research involved 70 patients consisting of Group P (35 patients) who received neuraxial block using premixture of 7.5mg(1.5ml) of 0.50% heavy bupivacaine with 25 mcg injection fentanyl in same syringe. However, in Group S (35 patients) the same drug was administered using one syringe without barbotage and 25mcg of fentanyl from other syringe. Block characteristics, hemodynamic parameters, VAS (visual analogue scale), APGAR score and any complications or side effects were noted. Results: On comparing the groups, there was no statistical significance found among hemodynamic parameters. The average duration of sensory blockade was considerably shorter in group S (1.91±0.28) than in group P. (2.63±0.49) (p=0.001). Similar statistically significant results were obtained on comparing onset of sensory block between the groups. Moreover, on comparing onset/duration of motor block statistically significant results were obtained(p<0.05). The results were comparable on comparing VAS and APGAR scores between the groups. Conclusion: Serial injection of fentanyl as an addon drug to low dosage heavy bupivacaine is helpful in quicker onset and extended period of sensory and motor blockade with stable hemodynamic parameters.

Description

.