[Prophylaxis and treatment of arterial hypotension during caesarean with spinal anaesthesia]

Abstract

Caesarean section is one of the most common surgical procedures worldwide. Arterial hypotension is the most prevalent adverse effect after spinal anaesthesia. Various methods have been used to prevent or treat hypotension. Since there is no treatment 100% effective by itself, a multimodal management is required to achieve an optimum balance and avoidance of hemodynamic imbalance. Strategies to avoid this side effect are analyzed on the basis of the best evidence available so far, summarized as mechanical factors, anesthetics, fluids and vasopressors. After spinal anaesthesia for caesarean section, the best strategy available for prevention of hypotension appears to be the combination of crystalloids along with an alpha 1 agonist vasopressor.

Keywords: Anestesia subaracnoidea; Arterial hypotension; Cesarean section; Cesárea; Hipotensión arterial; Spinal anesthesia; Vasopresores; Vasopressor.