Key result
Spinal or epidural anesthesia is currently viewed as preferable to general anesthesia for a Caesarean section in COVID-19 patients to protect the mother, infant, and medical staff.
Why the study?
COVID-19 altered medical practices and protective measures, raising questions about whether priorities regarding anesthesia selection for infected pregnant patients have changed.
Regional anesthesia is preferred over general anesthesia for Caesarean sections in COVID-19 patients to minimize aerosol-generating procedures and protect healthcare workers.
Supports regional anesthesia preference for COVID-19 cesarean sections to limit transmission; leaves open need for prospective trials.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), sometimes referred to as an invisible killer, has changed all of our lives, including the daily practices of medical personnel and the approach to anesthesia. We must wear protective equipment and special suits, aprons, and 2 or 3 pairs of gloves. Our faces are obscured by masks and goggles and shields. We move with difficulty and have limited vision. Communication with patients is limited; they cannot see our facial expressions of smiles or concern. They only hear our voice, which may also be muffled. We look more like robots than someone demonstrating assistance, love, or compassion. We are strangers to our infected patients. When thinking about the type of anesthesia for pregnant patients who have the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), 3 factors taken into consideration ranked according to importance are the safest method for healthcare providers, ease of application, and difficulties associated with movement and vision. The patient's wishes are secondary. Have priorities changed?
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Antigona Hasani (2020) conducted a review in COVID-19 in pregnancy requiring Caesarean section. Regional anesthesia (spinal or epidural) vs. General anesthesia was evaluated. Spinal or epidural anesthesia is currently viewed as preferable to general anesthesia for a Caesarean section in COVID-19 patients to protect the mother, infant, and medical staff.
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