Background: Spinal anesthesia is considered as a suitable option for cesarean sections. Currently, the clinical acceptance of hyperbaric 0.75% ropivacaine for spinal anesthesia has increased. Ropivacaine, as a pure S-enantiomer of bupivacaine, is expected to have a more favorable clinical profile. This study aims to compare the efficacy and outcomes of 0.75% hyperbaric ropivacaine with 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine for spinal anesthesia during cesarean sections. Methods: A total of 64 women were divided into two groups for a randomized control trial. Group B received 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine, while 0.75% hyperbaric ropivacaine was administered to Group R. The hemodynamic parameters, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, and side effects were noted. Results: Group B showed a considerably longer period of sensory and motor blockage than group R, and the onset time was shorter. Group B’s VAS scores were lower, and their initial request for analgesia was much longer. Bradycardia and hypotension were the more common adverse effects in Group B. Conclusion: The 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine offers a faster onset and longer duration, while ropivacaine is favored for its minimal hemodynamic impact, shorter block duration, and lower adverse reaction rates. Therefore, 0.75% hyperbaric ropivacaine is considered a safe and efficient alternative to bupivacaine. The choice between them should consider patient-specific factors, surgical duration, and the anesthesiologist’s judgment to ensure optimal outcomes and safety.
Singh et al. (Thu,) studied this question.