Anesthetic technique for elective cesarean section in obese parturients: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Context: A pregnant obese is at an increased risk of several serious adverse outcomes. Anesthesia-related morbidity and mortality are increased in this patient population. Aims: The primary aim of this study was to find the incidence of obesity in parturients presenting for elective cesarean section (CS) and the anesthesia technique offered to these obese parturients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study of patients presenting for elective CS was done over 2 months. The data included patients' age, height, weight at the first antenatal visit and at term, parity, and type of anesthesia. The percentage of obese parturients was determined by calculating the body mass index from the data. Results: Data were calculated from 109 patients. The percentage of obese parturients was 60% and 16.5% were overweight. Spinal anesthesia was employed in 60% of obese parturients for elective CS. Conclusion: The increasing number of obese parturients is alarming and among the highest in the region. The percentage of spinal anesthesia for elective CS is below the recommended international guidelines.