Advances in anesthesia and pharmacology in the puerperium.
The past year has provided us with some interesting studies concerning pharmacology and anesthesia during the puerperium. I review the prevalence of various anesthetic techniques, as well as the use of different aspiration prophylaxis regimens. I also look at innovations in the administration of epidural and subarachnoid anesthetics, including use of the Sprotte needle to prevent postoperative headache. A small study shows that vitamin administration to premature neonates may prevent periventricular hemorrhage. Furthermore, predelivery injections of glucocortoid may protect against bronchopulmonary dysplasia. I also review painstaking studies that help to better understand thyroid stimulation and regulation during pregnancy. I hope this paper helps the busy obstetrician understand some of the highlights of this year's new literature on obstetric anesthesia and pharmacology.
Samuels
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Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104.
D016362:Analgesia, Obstetrical / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000773:Anesthesia, Obstetrical / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004358:Drug Therapy / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007743:Labor, Obstetric / Q000187:drug effects; D011247:Pregnancy / Q000187:drug effects