Risk prediction score for high spinal block in patients undergoing cesarean delivery: a retrospective cohort study.

Background: High spinal block is a serious complication of spinal anesthesia. However, findings regarding its associated risk factors are inconsistent, and no studies have reported a relevant risk prediction score. We aimed to determine the risk prediction score for high spinal block in patients who were induced spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a hospital in Southern Thailand between 2019 and 2020. We recorded demographic characteristics, gestational age (GA), hyperbaric bupivacaine dose, sensory block level, pre- and post-procedure blood pressure, and birth weight. High spinal block was defined as a decrease in pinprick sensation > T4. Risk scores, adjusted odds ratios (OR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were determined. Risk scores were derived from the coefficients of the final multivariate logistic regression model.

Results: The incidence of high spinal block was 22.4% among the 1003 parturients. Our risk prediction tool for high spinal block had a sensitivity and specificity of 76% and 49%, respectively, and was classified into high (> 21), intermediate (15-21), and low (≤ 14) risk groups. The patient-related predictors were a GA < 35 weeks (OR [95% CI]: 2.31 [1.13, 4.71], score of 8), height < 150 cm (2.21 [1.11, 4.38], score of 8), and post-pregnancy body mass index > 27.5 kg/m² (2.68 [1.33, 5.41], score of 10). The anesthesia-related predictors were a hyperbaric bupivacaine dose > 11 mg (2.56 [1.34, 4.87], score of 9) and induction by a first-year resident (1.48 [1.05, 2.09], score of 4). The surgery-related predictors were previous cesarean delivery in labor (1.83 [1.2, 2.78], score of 6) and elective cesarean delivery (2.53 [1.57, 4.07], score of 9) compared to indication by cephalopelvic disproportion. The incidence of intraoperative hypotension was significantly higher in the high-block group than in the control group (46% vs. 25%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The combination of patient- and anesthesia-related predictors played an important role in the intermediate- and high-risk groups for high sensory spinal block. Addressing the modifiable risk factors-a GA < 35 weeks, an optimal dose of bupivacaine, and the experience level of the spinal block performer-could minimize the risk of high spinal block during cesarean delivery.