Comparison of the Effects of Anaesthesia Methods Used in Caesarean Delivery on Neonatal Cerebral and Renal Oxygenation: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Background: During a newborn’s adaptation to extrauterine life, many changes take place that are influenced by various factors. The type of delivery and anaesthesia strategy utilised during labour can modify these adaptive modifications. In this regard, this study was designed to compare the effects of general and spinal anaesthesia on cerebral and renal oxygenation after elective caesarean deliveries. Methods: This randomised controlled study comprised sixty parturient women who were over 18 years old and had a gestational age between 37 and 41 weeks. All participants had an ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) classification of II. Neonatal cerebral (CrSO2) and renal (RrSO2) regional oxygen saturations were assessed using near-infrared spectroscopy. Additionally, the 1st–5th min Apgar scores, preductal and postductal peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), and perfusion index were recorded in both the general anaesthesia and spinal anaesthesia groups. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of CrSO2 or RrSO2 values. The values of CrSO2 and RrSO2 in both groups showed a significant rise from the 10th to the 15th min, respectively. Conclusions: General and spinal anaesthesia techniques used for cesarean delivery have similar effects on neonatal cerebral and renal oxygenation.