Keisersnitnarkose - plaaslike en streekstegnieke

Abstract

Giving a general anaesthetic for a caeserian section is often the most dangerous anaesthetic with which the General Practitioner has to contend. In this article several alternatives are proposed. Local abdominal wall infiltration is indicated for a limited number of patients. Contra-indications and possible toxic reactions are discussed. The necessary pre-medication and technique are dealt with in detail. Giving a spinal block foe caesarian section is not advocated. Epidural block is however an exceedingly useful technique for caesarian section, and offers many important advantages over general anaesthesia. Complications in competent hands are minimal. The technique should be learnt from an experienced person, and should be practised regularly lest the skill be lost. The unavailability of a competent teacher may be the biggest drawback of the technique. Indications, contra-indications, advantages, complications, pre-medication and technique are considered in detail.