Spinal anaesthesia versus general anaesthesia for elective caesarean section: effect on Apgar score and acid base status of newborn

ABSTRACT

Purpose of this study was to compare effect of halogenated volatile agents and spinal anesthesia on the APGAR score and on the umbilical acid-hase status of the infant. Total seventy five [75] patients were included in the study that underwent elective cesarean section; 15 had spinal anesthesia and thirty patients had general anesthesia with Halothane group and thirty with Isoflurane. The neonatal outcome was grouped into asphyxiated [APGAR score 1-3], depressed [APGAR score 4-6] acidotic but vigorous [APGAR score 7-10]. In all three groups none of the baby was asphyxiated. 26 babies in each general anesthesia group and 14 in spinal anesthesia group had APGAR score between 8-10 at one minute and I 011 0 at 5 minutes. In conclusion the results favor regional block as the procedure of choice for the well being of the infant delivered through cesarean section