Article Text

Download PDFPDF
Intrathecal Hyperbaric Bupivacaine Dose Response in Postpartum Tubal Ligation Patients
  1. Suzanne L. Huffnagle, D.O.,
  2. Mark C. Norris, M.D.,
  3. H. Jane Huffnagle, D.O.,
  4. Barbara L. Leighton, M.D. and
  5. Valerie A. Arkoosh, M.D.
  1. From the Department of Anesthesiology, Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University (S.L.H., H.J.H.), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Department of Anesthesiology, Henry Medical Center (M.C.N.), Stockbridge, Georgia; Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Medical College, Cornell University (B.L.L.), New York, New York; and the Departments of Anesthesiology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, MCP Hahnemann University (V.A.A.), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
  1. Reprint requests: Suzanne L. Huffnagle, D.O., Department of Anesthesiologists, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107. E-mail: Suzanne.Huffnagle@mail.tju.edu

Abstract

Background and Objectives Because of its short duration, hyperbaric lidocaine has been a popular intrathecal drug to provide anesthesia for postpartum tubal ligation (PPTL). However, reports of transient symptoms associated with its use have prompted the search for alternative intrathecal local anesthetics for short procedures. Hyperbaric bupivacaine is rarely associated with transient neurologic symptoms, and we designed this study to determine the optimal dose of bupivacaine for PPTL that assures adequate sensory block and allows the patient the shortest recovery time.

Methods Forty American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I-II patients undergoing spinal anesthesia for PPTL were randomly assigned to receive 5.0, 7.5, 10.0, or 12.5 mg hyperbaric bupivacaine in the right lateral position.

Results Despite sensory block above T-8 in all groups, 4 of the 5 patients in the 5-mg group developed blocks insufficiently dense for surgery and required general anesthesia. Failed spinals occurred evenly in the remaining groups. Motor regression was significantly more rapid with decreasing doses of bupivacaine. Time in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) was shorter in the 7.5-mg group.

Conclusions Hyperbaric bupivacaine 7.5 mg injected in the lateral position provides adequate surgical anesthesia for PPTL with a minimal duration of motor block and recovery time.

  • Intrathecal hyperbaric bupivacaine
  • Postpartum tubal ligation (PPTL)

Statistics from Altmetric.com

Request Permissions

If you wish to reuse any or all of this article please use the link below which will take you to the Copyright Clearance Center’s RightsLink service. You will be able to get a quick price and instant permission to reuse the content in many different ways.

Footnotes

  • Presented at the Society of Obstetrical Anesthesiologists and Perinatologists meeting, Vancouver, British Columbia, April 29 to May 2, 1998, and at the American Society of Anesthesiologists meeting, Orlando, FL, October 17-21, 1998.